Characterization of immune cells in oral tissues of non-human primates
Description
In this study, we assess immune cell populations across non-human primate (NHP), Macaca nemestrina oral tissues. Specifically, we assess tissue biopsies (Bx, Unbr) and cytobrushed (CB, Cybr) samples taken from buccal, sublingual, and lingual tonsil tissues. We also assess immune populations across sex and age differences. All samples are measured using flow cytometry to quantify relative cell frequencies as well as normalized cell quantities per tissue mass, or brushing, to assess the overall density of immune cell populations. Immune cells are determined from live, CD45+ leukocytes. Of these leukocytes, we identify CD45+CD3+ T-cells, CD45+CD3-CD20+ B-cells, and CD45+CD3-CD20-CD11c+ antigen-presenting cells (APCs). Finally, we assess subpopulations of T-cells and APCs. T-cells are further delineated as CD45+CD3+CD4+ or CD45+CD3+CD8+. APCs are separated as CD45+CD20-CD11c+CD1a+ Langerhans Cells (LCs) or CD45+CD20-CD11c+CD11b+ submucosal dendritic cells (SMDCs). Considering that the NHP model better represents the human immune system than mouse models, we believe these data can provide important information for understanding oral health. Further, these data can inform the optimal location and delivery strategies for novel oral mucosal vaccination methods.