ABSTRACT
The primary functions of the avian erythrocyte are those related to the uptake, transport and release of oxygen and carbon dioxide. It has been discovered that these cells also produce certain cytokines which have effects on other cells. This has led to the concept that the avian erythrocyte could be considered a cell that retains at least some of the activities of phylogenetically ancient antigen presenting cells. Studies have been conducted to find out whether similar activities have been conserved in bird erythrocytes. Utilizing the erythrocytes of the chicken Gallus gallus as an avian model it was determined that these cells form rosettes with monocytes and macrophages, and assist them in their phagocytic functions. The interaction has been described as cross-talk between activated erythrocytes and monocytes-macrophages. The investigators concluded that while bird erythrocytes are non-immune cells, they nevertheless have retained the ability to participate in the immune response.
