T helper 17 cell

T helper 17 cells (Th17) are a subset of pro-inflammatory T helper cells defined by their production of interleukin 17 (IL-17). They are related to T regulatory cells and the signals that cause Th17s to actually inhibit Treg differentiation.[1] However, Th17s are developmentally distinct from Th1 and Th2 lineages. Th17 cells play an important role in maintaining mucosal barriers and contributing to pathogen clearance at mucosal surfaces; such protective and non-pathogenic Th17 cells have been termed as Treg17 cells.[2]

They have also been implicated in autoimmune and inflammatory disorders. The loss of Th17 cell populations at mucosal surfaces has been linked to chronic inflammation and microbial translocation. These regulatory Th17 cells can be generated by TGF-beta plus IL-6 in vitro.

  1. ^ Hartigan-O'Connor DJ, Hirao LA, McCune JM, Dandekar S (May 2011). "Th17 cells and regulatory T cells in elite control over HIV and SIV". Current Opinion in HIV and AIDS. 6 (3): 221–7. doi:10.1097/COH.0b013e32834577b3. PMC 4079838. PMID 21399494.
  2. ^ Singh B, Schwartz JA, Sandrock C, Bellemore SM, Nikoopour E (November 2013). "Modulation of autoimmune diseases by interleukin (IL)-17 producing regulatory T helper (Th17) cells". The Indian Journal of Medical Research. 138 (5): 591–4. PMC 3928692. PMID 24434314.