gamma delta T cells in autoimmunity

Conclusions  γδ T cells likely play a critical role in the host defenses, and recent evidence has indicated they are important in regulation of the immune response after pathogen challenge. Data are also accumulating that they play a part in autoimmunity and immune regulation. Evidence indicates that γδ T cells mediate these effects through cytokine production, via direct effects on cells of the adaptive immune response, or through interactions with innate immune components or barriers. Nevertheless, the biological function of γδ T cells in immune responses, especially in autoimmunity, largely remains unresolved. Further studies are needed to gain more knowledge about the immunobiology of these cells, asking why precisely they bear an activated phenotype in vivo, how their cytokine production is regulated, and how they interact with other cells of the innate and adaptive immune responses.