Langerhans Cells Epithelium — MFDS Part 1 MCQ
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Correct answer: B — Langerhans cells
Langerhans cells are specialised dendritic antigen-presenting cells resident within oral stratified squamous epithelium. They sample and process antigens and can migrate to regional lymphoid tissue, where they contribute to T-cell activation. Merkel cells are epithelial mechanosensory cells, while melanocytes produce and transfer melanin. Keratinocytes form most of the epithelial barrier and can participate in immune signalling, but they are not the specialised resident professional antigen-presenting cell tested here. Fibroblasts are connective-tissue cells located principally in the underlying lamina propria rather than within the epithelium. Therefore, Langerhans cells are the single best answer.
Reference: Hovav A-H, Wilensky A. The role of the epithelial sentinels, Langerhans cells and γδT cells, in oral squamous cell carcinoma. Periodontology 2000. 2024;96(1):221-228. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38273461/