In vitro dendritic cell (DC) assays are essential for understanding the role of DCs in initiating and regulating immune responses. These assays allow researchers to study DC differentiation, maturation, and antigen-presenting capabilities, which are crucial for activating T cells and eliciting a robust immune response. By examining how DCs process and present antigens, scientists can gain insights into vaccine development and the design of immunotherapies. Additionally, DC assays help evaluate the effects of drugs and therapeutic agents on DC function, providing critical data for optimizing treatment strategies.

DC Induction and Characterization Assays

This assay evaluates the induction of immature dendritic cells (iDCs) by analyzing their phenotypic markers and functional characteristics, providing insights into DC biology and their potential for immunotherapeutic applications.

DC Maturation and Activation Assays

We evaluate dendritic cells' progression from an immature to a mature state by analyzing cell surface markers (CD83, CD86, CD80, MHC II) and cytokine responses. This assay helps in understanding the DCs' readiness to initiate immune responses, crucial for immunotherapy and vaccine research.

DC Mediated Antigen Presentation

It involves coculturing DCs with CD4+ T cells from OT-I or OT-II transgenic mice, which are engineered to express T cell receptors specific to peptides presented by MHC class I or II. This setup is essential for assessing the efficacy of DCs in presenting antigens and stimulating T cell responses.

DC/CD4+T Mixed Lymphocyte Reaction (MLR) Assays (see T cell assays section)