Expression and function of immunoglobulin-like transcripts on tolerogenic dendritic cells

The expression of inhibitory immunoglobulin-like transcripts (ILTs) on dendritic cells (DCs) is a biomarker of tolerogenic DCs. In this article we discuss current knowledge on the function of ILTs and explore the molecular mechanisms involved in modulation of DCs via the inhibitory receptor and its natural ligand, rendering these cells tolerogenic. We propose a method to enhance targeting of inhibitory receptors on DCs using microparticles containing a preferential ligand, HLA-G, and monoclonal antibody against the pan-DCs marker CD11c. The double-coated microparticles increase the binding of ILT4 receptor and improve modulation of DCs in vitro and in vivo. This targeting concept can be used for regulation of specific immune responses to antigens in transplantation, autoimmunity, allergy, and cancer.