Roles of Stromal Cells in the Immune System

Stromal cells were typically defined as passive organizers of an organ, producing extracellular matrix and basement membrane proteins. While stromal cells do provide important structural support for most organs, their role in coordinating the local microenvironment in the steady state and during inflammation is becoming increasingly better known. In this article we will review the many roles of stromal cells in regulating immune responses in their local tissue environment, including both lymphoid tissue and inflammatory lesions.