A03: Role of skin DC subtypes for induction of anti-Leishmania response

Different DC subsets in the skin play divergent roles during T cell priming and education. Previously, the AG von Stebut demonstrated that epidermal Langerhans cells (LC) regulate anti-Leishmania immunity, but do not promote protection via Th1/Tc1 induction. In the present proposal, the AG now aims to identify protection-promoting DC subsets in skin as well as the underlying mechanisms. In light of vaccine development, knowledge about immune modulating functions of skin DC is critical.