7. Immunocytochemical study of S-100 protein positive adherent cells obtained from human tonsils

Both macrophages (Mφ) and dendritic cells (DC) are of a plastic adherent nature. We examined human tonsillar transiently adherent cells (TAC) using immunocytochemical double staining technique. Immunoreactivity for monoclonal antibodies ［Anti-LeuM5(CD11c), DAKO-Macrophage, FMC32, Myeloid/Histiocyte Antigen (DAKO-MAC387) ］ was investigated on S-100+ TAC. S-100+ TAC were on the average 97% CD11c+, 86% DAKO-Macrophage+, 68% FMC32+ and 0% DAKO-MAC387+. The distribution patterns of the above mentioned antibodies-positive cells in the tonsil tissue were also examined. In the T.cell-dependent area, S-100+ interdigitating cells (IDC) and MAC387+ Mφ were present. In addition, many scattered CD11c+, DAKO-Macrophage+, FMC32+ cells were observed, each in a separate staining, With regard to the staining overlap in the analysis of TAC and distribution patterns of Mφ and DC in the tonsil tissue, we reached two conclusions. First, most of the S-100+ IDC in the T-cell-dependent area are immunoreactive for CD11c, DAKO-Macrophage and FMC32. second, DAKO-MAC387+ Mφ and S-100+ DC are completely separate cellular populations.