Researchers explored the role of γδ T cells, a type of lymphocyte with innate-like characteristics, in homeostatic functions like pathogen defense, tissue modeling, and stress response. Researchers determined that these cells are especially adept at responding to danger signals, which makes them key players in cytokine-mediated diseases like spondyloarthritis and psoriasis—diseases closely linked to mucosal disturbances in the skin or gut. In spondyloarthritis, γδ T cells are primary producers of IL-17, driving inflammation and potentially new bone formation. Notably, they may act as a link between gut and joint inflammation, highlighting their significant role in immune-mediated diseases.
Reference: Bernal-Alferes B, Gómez-Mosqueira R, Ortega-Tapia GT, et al. The role of γδ T cells in the immunopathogenesis of inflammatory diseases: From basic biology to therapeutic targeting. J Leukoc Biol. 2023 Apr 11:qiad046. doi: 10.1093/jleuko/qiad046. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 37040589
