On human dendritic cell subsets harnessing cytotoxic T-cell responses

In this work we explore the function of different dendritic cell (DC)-derived molecules in the induction of CTL responses. In chapter two we compare the capacity of two major human skin DC subsets to induce CTL responses, and we study which T-cell differentiating molecules are critical. In chapter three we investigate the comparative roles of human blood DC-derived IL-12 and IL-27 in promoting inflammatory and cytotoxic functions in CD8+ T-cells. In chapter four we compare the capacity of TLR3 and TLR8 stimulation in human blood-derived DCs to promote CTL responses through the induction CTL-promoting molecules as defined in the earlier chapters of this thesis. Furthermore, we investigate what signalling events are critically involved in the induction of these CTL-promoting molecules. In chapter five the CTL-inducing capacity of three major human blood DC subsets is compared and the role of several CTL-inducing factors further analysed. Finally, in chapter 6 we discuss how our results fit in and complement current knowledge about DC/T-cell interactions specifically directed at CTL differentiation.