Versatile IL-17-producing γδ T Cells

IL-17-producing γδ T cells, often referred to as γδ T 17 cells, are garnering increasing attention for their pivotal roles in immune regulation and their potential therapeutic applications. Here, Creative Biolabs delves into the multifaceted universe of IL-17-producing γδ T cells, exploring their developmental pathways, their intriguing roles in specific inflammatory environments, and the promising therapeutic potential they offer.

Developmental Pathways of IL-17-producing γδ T Cells

Within the realm of γδ T cells, a subset marked by their ability to produce interleukin-17 (IL-17) has emerged as a distinct and intriguing population. The development of IL-17-producing γδ T cells follows a distinct pattern.

• Thymic Development: Early in their development, γδ T cells express distinct T cell receptor (TCR) chains, primarily γ1δ1 or γ4δ1. These TCR chains enable them to recognize self-antigens presented by thymic epithelial cells and undergo positive selection.
• Transcription Factors and Cytokine Milieu: This developmental process is finely tuned by various transcription factors, including RORγt, which plays a central role in driving the IL-17-producing phenotype. Interleukin-7 (IL-7) and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) play pivotal roles in guiding γδ T cells toward the IL-17-producing lineage.

γδ T 17 Cells in Specific Inflammatory Environments

Fig. 1 Multifunctionality of γδ17 T cells in inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.¹

Once matured, IL-17-producing γδ T cells emerge as key players in immune responses, particularly in the context of inflammatory environments. These cells are characterized by their ability to produce IL-17A, IL-17F, and IL-22, cytokines that exert a profound influence on various immune processes. They can adapt to different tissue microenvironments and respond dynamically to the cues presented by surrounding cells and cytokines.

• In the skin, γδ T 17 cells contribute to host defense against pathogens and play a role in tissue homeostasis.
• In the gut, they participate in maintaining the delicate balance between immune tolerance and inflammation.
• Moreover, their presence has been documented in various other tissues, including the lungs, where they are implicated in both protective and pathogenic responses.
• In the tumor microenvironment, γδ T17 cells also infiltrate the tumor microenvironment. On one hand, they can promote antitumor immunity by enhancing cytotoxic T cell responses. On the other hand, their proinflammatory potential may contribute to tumor progression in certain contexts.

Therapeutic Potential of γδ T 17 Cells

The multifaceted nature of IL-17-producing γδ T cells offers exciting opportunities for therapeutic intervention.

• Immunotherapy - γδ T 17 cells can be engineered to express chimeric antigen receptors (CARs), redirecting their activity towards specific targets.
• Vaccine Development - Harnessing γδ T 17 cell responses can enhance vaccine efficacy by promoting robust and long-lasting immune responses.
• Tissue Regeneration - Vγ4/Vδ4 γδ T cells' involvement in tissue repair suggests potential applications in regenerative medicine, promoting wound healing and tissue regeneration.

At Creative Biolabs, we remain committed to exploring the limitless possibilities of immunotherapy, including the untapped potential of IL-17-producing γδ T cells. We remain at the forefront of unlocking their potential. Stay tuned for the exciting discoveries yet to come in this evolving field.

Reference

1. Papotto, Pedro H., et al. "Innately versatile: γδ17 T cells in inflammatory and autoimmune diseases." Journal of autoimmunity 87 (2018): 26-37.