Title
Antigen-presenting cells under the influence of alcohol
UMMS Affiliation
Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology
Date
12-9-2008
Document Type
Article
Medical Subject Headings
Animals; Antigen-Presenting Cells; Cell Movement; Cytokines; Ethanol; Humans; Liver; Signal Transduction
Disciplines
Gastroenterology | Immunology and Infectious Disease
Abstract
The negative influence of alcohol (ethanol) and its metabolites on innate and adaptive immunity is well-recognized. Much attention has recently been focused on the impact of acute and chronic alcohol exposure on antigen-presenting cells (APC). In particular, insights have been gained into how the properties of human blood monocytes and rodent macrophages are influenced by alcohol in vitro and in vivo. Here, we review the impact of alcohol on various aspects of APC function and the underlying mechanisms, including its effects on intracellular signaling events. We also discuss new information regarding the influence of alcohol on various APC populations in the liver, a primary site of alcohol metabolism.
Rights and Permissions
Citation: Trends Immunol. 2009 Jan;30(1):13-22. Epub 2008 Dec 6. Link to article on publisher's site