CD8⁺ T Lymphocytes: Crucial Players in Sjögren's Syndrome

Primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) is a chronic autoimmune disease associated with damage to multiple organs and glands. The most common clinical manifestations are dry eyes, dry mouth, and enlarged salivary glands. Currently, CD4⁺ T lymphocytes are considered to be key factors in the immunopathogenesis of pSS, but various studies have shown that CD8⁺ T lymphocytes contribute to acinar injury in the exocrine glands. Therefore, in this review, we discussed the classification and features of CD8⁺ T lymphocytes, specifically describing the role of CD8⁺ T lymphocytes in disease pathophysiology. Furthermore, we presented treatment strategies targeting CD8⁺ T cells to capitalize on the pathogenic and regulatory potential of CD8⁺ T lymphocytes in SS to provide promising new strategies for this inflammatory disease.