Biophysical Characteristics of DCs at Different Differentiation Stages

DCs are the most powerful antigen-presenting cells, which play key roles in initiation and amplification of innate and adaptive immune response. They and their precursors undergo complex migration to perform their functions in vivo. To explore their immune functions from biophysical viewpoint, the biophysical characteristics of DCs at different differentiation stages were investigated in vitro, including osmotic fragility, electrophoretic mobility, deformability, membrane fluidity, adhesion capability, F-actin cytoskeleton organization, and FTIR spectra. The results showed that the DCs at various differentiation stages displayed distinct biophysical characteristics. It is significant for further understanding the mechanisms of the activation of immunological responses and the migration from peripheral tissue to secondary lymphoid organs.