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Updated: Sep 1, 2025
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Published on: March 5, 2010
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CD20+ T cells: an emerging T cell subset in human pathology
Adrian Y S Lee1,2,3
1Department of Clinical Immunology, Westmead Hospital, Hawkesbury Road, Westmead, NSW, 2145, Australia. adrian.lee1@sydney.edu.au.
Summary
CD20-positive T cells, though rare, express inflammatory markers and are found in various diseases. Their function and origin are under investigation, but they can be targeted by CD20-depleting therapies.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- CD20 is primarily a B cell marker, but dim expression is also observed on a subset of T cells.
- The function and characteristics of these CD20-positive (CD20+) T cells are not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of CD20+ T cells.
- To explore their presence in various diseases, potential functions, and therapeutic implications.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search of PubMed was conducted using keywords related to CD20+ T cells.
- English-language articles were included without time restrictions.
Main Results:
- CD20+ T cells express standard T cell markers and exhibit higher levels of inflammatory cytokines and effector function markers compared to CD20- T cells.
- The prevailing theory suggests CD20 acquisition by T cells from B cells via trogocytosis.
- These cells are present in healthy individuals and associated with autoimmune diseases, malignancies, and HIV infections, notably multiple sclerosis (MS).
Conclusions:
- CD20+ T cells are present in diverse pathologies and may be targeted by CD20-depleting agents.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the role and implications of CD20+ T cells in various diseases.
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