Which subset of dendritic cells is known for producing type I interferon during viral infections?

Plasmacytoid dendritic cells are recognized for their unique ability to produce type I interferon, particularly in response to viral infections. This distinguishes them from other subsets of dendritic cells. When viruses are detected, plasmacytoid dendritic cells respond quickly by producing large amounts of interferons, which play a critical role in the antiviral immune response. Type I interferons are essential for establishing an early innate immune response, enhancing the ability of neighboring cells to resist viral replication and activating various immune pathways, including those involving natural killer cells and other components of the adaptive immune system.

In contrast, conventional dendritic cells, while important for initiating and regulating immune responses, are more involved in antigen presentation and activation of T cells rather than directly producing type I interferons. Follicular dendritic cells primarily function in the B cell area of lymphoid organs and play a role in presenting antigens to B cells but do not produce type I interferons. Myeloid dendritic cells also focus on antigen capture and presentation but do not have the same capacity to generate type I interferon as plasmacytoid dendritic cells do, particularly in the context of viral infections.