Final Answer:
The migration of immature dendritic cells during the immune response of a naive animal involves a series of steps, including chemotaxis, adhesion, transendothelial migration, and maturation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Chemotaxis: Immature dendritic cells are attracted to signals, such as chemokines, released at the site of infection or inflammation. This chemotactic movement directs them to the area where antigen exposure has occurred.
Adhesion: Dendritic cells adhere to the endothelial cells lining blood vessels near the infection site. This adhesion is facilitated by adhesion molecules.
Transendothelial Migration: Dendritic cells move across the endothelial layer of blood vessels, guided by various signaling molecules. This process involves diapedesis, allowing them to exit the bloodstream and enter the tissue.
Maturation: Upon reaching the tissue, dendritic cells undergo maturation, which involves changes in morphology, antigen processing, and the expression of co-stimulatory molecules. Mature dendritic cells then present antigens to T cells, initiating the adaptive immune response.
Understanding these steps is crucial for comprehending the dynamic role of dendritic cells in immune surveillance and response.