Non-hematopoietic cells, with extensive dendritic processes, found in the primary and secondary follicles of lymphoid tissue (the B cell zones). They are different from conventional DENDRITIC CELLS associated with T-CELLS. They are derived from MESENCHYMAL STEM CELLS and are negative for class II MHC antigen and do not process or present antigen like the conventional dendritic cells do. Instead, follicular dendritic cells have FC RECEPTORS and C3B RECEPTORS that hold antigen in the form of ANTIGEN-ANTIBODY COMPLEXES on their surfaces for long periods for recognition by B-CELLS.

Annotation

DENDRITIC CELLS is also available

DUI

D020566 MeSH Browser

CUI

M0328454

Previous indexing

Dendritic Cells (1987-1999); Lymph Nodes (1980-1986)

History note

2000; use DENDRITIC CELLS 1987-1999

Public note

2000; see DENDRITIC CELLS 1987-1999