PubMed · 1989 · 228 citations · 0 references
Inflammatory Lung DiseaseLung InflammationHumoral ResponseImmunologyPathologyImmune SystemLymphatic SystemLung MacrophagesImmunopathologyTracheobronchitisAutoimmune DiseaseRespiratory DiseasesAutoimmunityHumoral ImmunityPulmonary MedicineBronchus-associated Lymphoid TissuePhagocyteLymphoid Tissue BiologyRespiratory TractLung MechanicsMedicineBalt Nonlymphoid Cells
BALT is examined in terms of its development, structure, and role in local and systemic mucosal immunity, including cellular and humoral responses. The study focuses on how BALT’s lymphoepithelium handles antigens and interacts with macrophages, and on the structure and function of its non‑lymphoid cell types. The authors describe BALT’s epithelial and infiltrating cell composition and compare its antigen processing, immune responses, and cell migration to those of Peyer’s patches.
This article deals with the ontogeny, morphology, and function of bronchus-associated lymphoid tissue (BALT). The surface epithelium of the respiratory tract, including the lymphoepithelium of BALT, is described, with emphasis on infiltrated nonepithelial cells (lymphocytes, macrophages). Special attention is given to antigen handling by the lymphoepithelium and the interaction with BALT and lung macrophages. The structure and function of the diverse types of BALT nonlymphoid cells are discussed. The local immune responses (cellular and humoral reactions), the relationships between local and systemic immune reactions, and the role of BALT in the common mucosal immune system are reviewed. The BALT is compared with Peyer's patches in terms of antigen processing, local immune responses, cell populations, and migration of lymphoid and nonlymphoid cells.