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Updated: Dec 6, 2025
Expansion and Enrichment of Gamma-Delta γδ T Cells from Apheresed Human Product
Published on: September 22, 2021
Making a case for using γδ T cells against SARS-CoV-2
Mahboubeh Yazdanifar1, Narges Mashkour2, Alice Bertaina1
1Stem Cell Transplantation and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA.
Abstract:
Intensive worldwide efforts are underway to determine both the pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 infection and the immune responses in COVID-19 patients in order to develop effective therapeutics and vaccines. One type of cell that may contribute to these immune responses is the γδ T lymphocyte, which plays a key role in immunosurveillance of the mucosal and epithelial barriers by rapidly responding to pathogens. Although found in low numbers in blood, γδ T cells consist the majority of tissue-resident T cells and participate in the front line of the host immune defense. Previous studies have demonstrated the critical protective role of γδ T cells in immune responses to other respiratory viruses, including SARS-CoV-1. However, no studies have profoundly investigated these cells in COVID-19 patients to date. γδ T cells can be safely expanded in vivo using existing inexpensive FDA-approved drugs such as bisphosphonate, in order to test its protective immune response to SARS-CoV-2. To support this line of research, we review insights gained from previous coronavirus research, along with recent findings, discussing the potential role of γδ T cells in controlling SARS-CoV-2. We conclude by proposing several strategies to enhance γδ T cell's antiviral function, which may be used in developing therapies for COVID-19.
Insights
Gamma delta (γδ) T lymphocytes are crucial for immune defense against respiratory viruses. This review explores their potential role in COVID-19 and strategies to enhance their antiviral function for novel therapies.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Virology
- Cellular Biology
Background:
- Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and COVID-19 pathogenesis are under intensive investigation.
- Gamma delta (γδ) T lymphocytes are key players in mucosal immunity and host defense against pathogens.
- Previous research highlights the protective role of γδ T cells in SARS-CoV-1 infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the potential role of γδ T cells in the immune response to SARS-CoV-2.
- To discuss insights from prior coronavirus research and recent findings.
- To propose strategies for enhancing γδ T cell antiviral functions for COVID-19 therapeutic development.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing research on γδ T cells and coronaviruses.
- Analysis of the potential involvement of γδ T cells in COVID-19 pathogenesis.
- Discussion of strategies to boost γδ T cell activity.
Main Results:
- γδ T cells are strategically positioned at epithelial barriers, suggesting a role in early defense against respiratory viruses.
- Existing data on γδ T cells in SARS-CoV-1 suggests potential relevance for SARS-CoV-2.
- In vivo expansion of γδ T cells using bisphosphonates is a feasible approach for therapeutic research.
Conclusions:
- γδ T cells represent a promising, yet understudied, component of the immune response to SARS-CoV-2.
- Enhancing γδ T cell function could lead to novel therapeutic strategies for COVID-19.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the specific mechanisms and therapeutic potential of γδ T cells in COVID-19.
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