Th17 T cells: linking innate and adaptive immunity.

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Cell Biology

Background:

• Interleukin-17 (IL-17) was identified over a decade ago.
• IL-17 producing T cells were recently classified as a distinct CD4 T cell subset.
• Molecular mechanisms of T helper 17 (Th17) cell differentiation were elucidated in 2006.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an updated review of the rapidly evolving field of IL-17 producing cells.
• To focus on recent publications (2006-2007) concerning Th17 cell biology.
• To avoid repetition by referencing earlier reviews for historical context.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on publications from 2006 and 2007.
• Synthesis of recent findings on Th17 cell differentiation and function.
• Referencing of prior reviews for comprehensive coverage of the field.

Main Results:

• Significant advancements in understanding Th17 cell lineage commitment and differentiation.
• Identification of key molecular pathways, including the role of TGF-beta and inflammatory cytokines.
• Growing body of literature necessitates frequent updates in the field.

Conclusions:

• The field of Th17/IL-17 biology has expanded significantly since 2005.
• Recent research has clarified the developmental pathways of pathogenic effector Th17 cells.
• This review highlights key developments from 2006-2007, acknowledging the dynamic nature of the research area.