MAIT cells modulating the oral lichen planus immune microenvironment: a cellular crosstalk perspective

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Oral Medicine
• Inflammation Research

Background:

• Mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells bridge innate and adaptive immunity, releasing inflammatory molecules upon activation.
• Oral lichen planus (OLP) is an immune-mediated inflammatory condition involving T lymphocytes, with growing recognition of complex immune microenvironment interactions.
• Previous research on OLP has largely overlooked the broader immune context, focusing primarily on T cells.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the interplay between MAIT cells and other immune cells within the OLP microenvironment.
• To explore potential mechanisms of MAIT cell-mediated inflammation regulation in OLP.
• To elucidate the comprehensive role of MAIT cells in oral lichen planus.

Main Methods:

• Literature review consolidating current research on MAIT cells in OLP.
• Analysis of immune cell interactions within the OLP microenvironment.
• Investigation of inflammatory pathways involving MAIT cells in OLP.

Main Results:

• MAIT cells significantly impact the immune microenvironment in various immune disorders, including tumors.
• The OLP immune microenvironment involves complex interactions among T lymphocytes, fibroblasts, keratinocytes, dendritic cells, macrophages, cytokines, and chemokines.
• MAIT cells are increasingly recognized for their influence on the initiation and persistence of OLP.

Conclusions:

• MAIT cells play a crucial role in the immune microenvironment of oral lichen planus.
• Understanding MAIT cell interactions is vital for elucidating OLP pathogenesis.
• Further research into MAIT cells may reveal novel therapeutic targets for OLP.