The process begins with tumor antigen uptake, preservation, and migration to lymphatics. cDC1s express CCR7 and migrate towards CCL19 and CCL21 gradients. They present antigens to CD4 positive and CD8 positive T cells via MHC class 1 and 2 molecules. cDC1s also express costimulatory molecules like CD40, facilitating CD4 T cell help and effective priming of cytotoxic CD8 T cell responses. Additionally, cDC1s secrete chemokines such as CXCL9 and CXCL10, supporting T cell and NK cell infiltration, and cytokines like IL-15 and IL-12, supporting CD8 T cell and NK function.
Antitumorigenic functions of cDC1s —cDC1s are functionally adapted to take up and structurally preserve tumor-associated antigens. Upon uptake of antigen, cDC1s upregulate CCR7, which alongside a CCL19 and CCL21 gradient mediates migration to the draining lymphatics. cDC1s can effectively present tumor-associated antigens via MHC class I and II molecules to CD8+ and CD4+ T cells, respectively. Elevated expression of costimulatory molecules, e.g., CD40, and the facilitation of CD4+ T cell–mediated help ensure effective priming of cytotoxic CD8+ T cell responses. Additionally, cDC1s are important sources of chemokines that promote CD8+ T cell and NK cell recruitment to the tumor including CXCL9/10 and cytokines that support CD8+ T cell and NK function including IL-15 and IL-12.