Apoptotic cells induce Mer tyrosine kinase–dependent blockade of NF-κB activation in dendritic cells

Abstract

Dendritic cells (DCs) play a key role in immune homeostasis and maintenance of self-tolerance. Tolerogenic DCs can be established by an encounter with apoptotic cells (ACs) and subsequent inhibition of maturation and effector functions. The receptor(s) and signaling pathway(s) involved in AC-induced inhibition of DCs have yet to be defined. We demonstrate that pretreatment with apoptotic but not necrotic cells inhibits activation of IκB kinase (IKK) and downstream NF-κB. Notably, receptor tyrosine kinase Mer (MerTK) binding of ACs is required for mediating this effect. Monocyte-derived DCs lacking MerTK expression (MerTK^KD) or treated with blocking MerTK-specific antibodies (Abs) are resistant to AC-induced inhibition and continue to activate NF-κB and secrete proinflammatory cytokines. Blocking MerTK activation of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT pathway prevents AC-induced inhibition. These results demonstrate an essential role for MerTK-mediated regulation of the PI3K/AKT and NF-κB pathways in AC-induced inhibition of monocyte-derived DCs.