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Compartmentalization gamma/delta T cells and their putative role in mucosal immunity
1Medizinische Klinik II, Division of Gastroenterology, Johann Wolfgang Goethe-Universität, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany. W.Holtmeier@em.uni-frankfurt.de
Critical Reviews in Immunology
|March 20, 2004
Summary
Gamma/delta T cells at mucosal surfaces are not a single group but diverse subsets with distinct functions. Research explores their distribution, repertoire, and roles in conditions like inflammatory bowel disease.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Gamma/delta T cells are abundant at mucosal surfaces, positioned to initiate immune responses.
- Their function remains largely unknown, though they may recognize stress-induced self-antigens.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the distribution and repertoire of mucosal gamma/delta T cells.
- To discuss current knowledge on their functions and potential roles in inflammatory bowel disease.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of T cell receptor (TCR) delta repertoire from various mucosal surfaces.
- Review of existing literature on gamma/delta T cell distribution and function.
Main Results:
- Evidence suggests gamma/delta T cells recognize stress-induced self-antigens, but repertoire analysis indicates compartmentalization.
- This implies distinct subsets of gamma/delta T cells with specialized functions, rather than a homogeneous population.
Conclusions:
- Mucosal gamma/delta T cells are compartmentalized and comprise diverse subsets with potentially opposing functions (pro-inflammatory or healing).
- Further research is needed to elucidate their specific roles in mucosal immunity and diseases like inflammatory bowel disease.