Follicular helper T cell in immunity and autoimmunity
D Mesquita1, W M Cruvinel1, L S Resende2
1Divisão de Reumatologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil.
Summary
Follicular helper T (Tfh) cells are a newly identified T helper cell subset crucial for humoral immunity. Dysregulated Tfh cells contribute to autoimmune diseases by promoting autoantibody production.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Traditional T helper (Th) cell classification into Th1/Th2 subtypes has expanded to include IL-17-producing cells (Th17) and follicular helper T (Tfh) cells.
- Th17 and Tfh cells share common features like IL-21 production and expression of IL-23R, ICOS, and c-Maf, vital for their development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the biology and differentiation of Tfh cells.
- To elucidate the role of Tfh cells in normal immune responses and autoimmune diseases.
Main Methods:
- This review synthesizes existing research on Tfh cell biology and function.
- Focuses on molecular mechanisms and cellular interactions.
Main Results:
- Tfh cells, distinct from Th1/Th2 cells, express CXCR5 and home to B cell areas, specializing in B cell help.
- IL-21, a primary Tfh product, is essential for B cell activation and differentiation in humoral immunity.
- Aberrant Tfh cell activity is implicated in heightened humoral responses and autoantibody generation in autoimmune conditions.
Conclusions:
- Tfh cells are critical for effective immunity against pathogens.
- Understanding Tfh cell deregulation is key to addressing autoimmune pathogenesis.
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