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The function of gammadelta T cells in innate immunity
Willi K Born1, Christopher L Reardon, Rebecca L O'Brien
1Department of Immunology, at National Jewish Medical and Research Center, 1400 Jackson Street, Denver, CO 80206, USA. bornw@njc.org
Current Opinion in Immunology
|December 13, 2005
Summary
Gammadelta T lymphocytes exhibit innate immune system characteristics, including germline T cell receptor usage and antigen presentation. These cells represent advanced innate immune system components with complex functions.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cellular Biology
Background:
- Gammadelta T lymphocytes are often considered intermediate between innate and adaptive immunity.
- Recent research highlights their innate immune system features.
Purpose of the Study:
- To consolidate evidence supporting the innate functions of gammadelta T lymphocytes.
- To explore the complex role of these cells within the immune system.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent studies on gammadelta T lymphocyte characteristics.
- Analysis of T cell receptor (TCR) gene usage and protein expression.
- Examination of gammadelta T cell interactions with other immune cells.
Main Results:
- Gammadelta T cells utilize germline TCR elements for ligand recognition.
- Functional specialization of gammadelta T cell populations correlates with TCR variable gene/protein expression.
- Gammadelta T cells interact extensively with innate immune cells and can present antigens.
Conclusions:
- Strong evidence suggests gammadelta T cells function in an innate manner.
- These cells are highly complex and advanced representatives of the innate immune system.