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Epithelial defence by gamma delta T cells
Dieter Kabelitz1, Lothar Marischen, Hans-Heinrich Oberg
1Institute of Immunology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany. kabelitz@immunologie.uni-kiel.de
International Archives of Allergy and Immunology
|April 16, 2005
Summary
Gamma delta T cells, a distinct T lymphocyte type, differ from alpha beta T cells. They play roles in immune surveillance, particularly in skin and mucosal tissues like the gut.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Gamma delta T cells represent a distinct lineage of T lymphocytes.
- They possess unique T cell receptor (TCR) repertoires and tissue distribution compared to alpha beta T cells.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the fundamental characteristics of intraepithelial gamma delta T cells.
- To discuss their potential functions in epithelial defense mechanisms.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on gamma delta T cell biology.
- Analysis of TCR repertoire and tissue localization data.
Main Results:
- In mice, V gamma5 TCR-expressing gamma delta T cells function as dendritic epidermal T cells for immune surveillance.
- In humans, V delta2 cells are prevalent in peripheral blood, while V delta1 cells are found in mucosal tissues.
Conclusions:
- Intraepithelial gamma delta T cells exhibit specialized roles in mucosal immunity.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate their contribution to epithelial defense.