Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 3, 2026
07:46
In Vitro Differentiation of Naive CD4+ T Cells into Pathogenic Th17 Cells in Mouse
Published on: October 25, 2024
Cyclooxygenase-2 regulates Th17 cell differentiation during allergic lung inflammation
Hong Li1, J Alyce Bradbury, Ryan T Dackor
1Laboratories of Respiratory Biology; National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709, USA.
Summary
Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) is crucial for Th17 cell differentiation in allergic lung inflammation. Its metabolites, PGI(2) and PGF(2α), regulate these pro-inflammatory cells via specific receptors.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Inflammation Research
- T cell Biology
Background:
- Th17 cells are key drivers of allergic responses.
- The role of cyclooxygenase (COX)-derived eicosanoids in Th17 cell regulation during allergic lung inflammation remains unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of COX metabolites in regulating Th17 cell differentiation and function.
- To elucidate the specific mechanisms by which COX-2 influences allergic lung inflammation.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a murine model of ovalbumin-induced allergic lung inflammation.
- Employed in vitro Th17 differentiation assays with COX-1(-/-), COX-2(-/-), and wild-type cells.
- Analyzed Th17 cell differentiation, Stat3 phosphorylation, and RORγt expression.
- Investigated the effects of specific prostaglandins (PGs), inhibitors, and siRNA knockdown.
Main Results:
- COX-2 deficiency significantly impaired Th17 cell differentiation in vivo and in vitro.
- COX-2(-/-) T cells showed reduced Stat3 phosphorylation and RORγt expression.
- Synthetic PGF(2α) and PGI(2) restored Th17 differentiation in COX-2 deficient cells.
- Targeting PGF(2α) and PGI(2) receptors reduced Th17 differentiation.
Conclusions:
- COX-2 is essential for Th17 cell differentiation in allergic lung inflammation.
- Autocrine signaling of PGI(2) and PGF(2α) through their receptors mediates COX-2's effect on Th17 cells.
Related Concept Videos
01:24T Cell Types and Functions
When T cells with CD4 markers are activated, they give rise to two types of effector cells: helper T cells and regulatory T cells. Meanwhile, T cells with CD8 markers differentiate into effector cytotoxic T cells. The differentiation of CD4 T cells into helper T cell subsets, such as Th1, Th2, and Th17 cells, is dependent on the antigen type, antigen-presenting cell, and regulatory cytokines.
Th1 cells stimulate dendritic cells to express necessary co-stimulatory molecules on their surfaces for...
Th1 cells stimulate dendritic cells to express necessary co-stimulatory molecules on their surfaces for...
01:20Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-II: Pathophysiology
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) pathophysiology is intricate and multifaceted, involving a complex interplay of physiological processes. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for effectively managing and treating COPD. Here is an in-depth look at the critical elements in the pathophysiology of COPD:
Chronic Inflammation
Chronic Inflammation
01:28Inflammatory Response
An inflammatory response is a localized, nonspecific immune reaction that occurs when a tissue is injured. It is characterized by redness, swelling, heat, and pain, which are commonly called the cardinal signs and symptoms of inflammation. Inflammation can sometimes result in a loss of function.
Inflammation can be triggered by various stimuli, such as impact, abrasion, chemical irritation, infections, and extreme hot or cold temperatures. These can damage cells and connective tissue fibers,...
Inflammation can be triggered by various stimuli, such as impact, abrasion, chemical irritation, infections, and extreme hot or cold temperatures. These can damage cells and connective tissue fibers,...
01:26Asthma-II: Pathophysiology and Classification
Asthma is a prevalent chronic respiratory condition marked by inflammation and hyperresponsiveness of the airways. Its pathophysiology involves complex interactions among inflammatory pathways, immune responses, and neural mechanisms.
Additionally, environmental and genetic factors play crucial roles in determining an individual's susceptibility to asthma and the severity of their condition.
Critical processes in asthma pathophysiology include:
Additionally, environmental and genetic factors play crucial roles in determining an individual's susceptibility to asthma and the severity of their condition.
Critical processes in asthma pathophysiology include:
01:19Antiasthma Drugs: Leukotriene Modifiers
Leukotriene modifiers, or cysteinyl leukotriene receptor antagonists, are medications used to manage chronic asthma. These agents target specific inflammatory mediators produced during arachidonic acid metabolism, an essential process in generating inflammation in the body.
Leukotriene modifiers work through two distinct mechanisms:
Leukotriene modifiers work through two distinct mechanisms:
01:25Antiasthma Drugs: Mast Cell Stabilizers and Anti-IgE Drugs
Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition for which new therapeutic avenues, including anti-inflammatory drugs like mast cell stabilizers and anti-IgE treatments, continue to be developed.
Mast cell stabilizers, such as cromolyn (also known as sodium cromoglycate) and nedocromil (Tilade), are effective drugs in asthma management. These stabilizers hinder histamine release by skillfully obstructing the activation of mast cells and other cellular entities. Notably, they navigate this task without...
Mast cell stabilizers, such as cromolyn (also known as sodium cromoglycate) and nedocromil (Tilade), are effective drugs in asthma management. These stabilizers hinder histamine release by skillfully obstructing the activation of mast cells and other cellular entities. Notably, they navigate this task without...