Interleukin 17-producing T helper cells in alloimmunity

Transplant Rev (Orlando). 2009 Jan;23(1):11-8. doi: 10.1016/j.trre.2008.08.007.

Abstract

Interleukin (IL) 17 is a proinflammatory cytokine already known to play a defense role against microbes and a pathogenic role in a number of autoimmune diseases. Although IL-17 can be produced by a variety of cells including neutrophils, CD8+, NK, and gamma-delta T cells, the concept of IL-17-secreting CD4+ T helper cells (Th17), distinct from Th1 and Th2, recently emerged. Herein, we discuss arguments in favor of a Th17-mediated alternative pathway of allograft rejection based on clinical and experimental observations drawn from the literature. We also discuss the complex interplays among regulatory T cells and Th17 cells in the allogeneic context.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes / immunology
  • Cytokines / immunology
  • Humans
  • Immunologic Deficiency Syndromes / immunology
  • Interleukin-17 / immunology*
  • Mice
  • Neutrophils / immunology
  • T-Lymphocytes, Helper-Inducer / immunology*
  • T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory / immunology
  • Th1 Cells / immunology
  • Th2 Cells / immunology
  • Toll-Like Receptors / immunology
  • Transplantation Immunology*
  • Transplantation, Homologous / immunology*
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Cytokines
  • Interleukin-17
  • Toll-Like Receptors