Th17
Th17 cells are a subset of pro-inflammatory T cells that produce interleukin 17 (IL-17). They are considered developmentally distinct from Th1 and Th2 cells and play a key role in mucosal immunity and autoimmunity.
Development[edit | edit source]
Th17 cells develop from naive T cell precursors in response to interleukin-6 (IL-6) and transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β). The differentiation of Th17 cells is further promoted by interleukin-23 (IL-23). This process is regulated by the transcription factor RORγt.
Function[edit | edit source]
Th17 cells play a crucial role in the immune response to extracellular bacteria and fungi. They produce several cytokines, including IL-17A, IL-17F, interleukin-22 (IL-22), and interleukin-26 (IL-26), which help recruit neutrophils and macrophages to the site of infection.
Role in disease[edit | edit source]
While Th17 cells are important for host defense, their dysregulation can lead to autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and multiple sclerosis. Therapies that target the IL-17 pathway are currently being developed for these conditions.
See also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
External links[edit | edit source]
- Th17 cells at the US National Library of Medicine Medical Subject Headings (MeSH)
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