Human CD4+CD3- innate-like T cells provide a source of TNF and lymphotoxin-αβ and are elevated in rheumatoid arthritis.

ABSTRACT: Innate lymphoid cells encompass a diverse array of lymphocyte subsets with unique phenotype that initiate inflammation and provide host defenses in specific microenvironments. In this study, we identify a rare human CD4(+)CD3(-) innate-like lymphoid population with high TNF expression that is enriched in blood from patients with rheumatoid arthritis. These CD4(+)CD3(-) cells belong to the T cell lineage, but the lack of AgR at the cell surface renders them nonresponsive to TCR-directed stimuli. By developing a culture system that sustains survival, we show that CD4(+)CD3(-) innate-like T cells display IL-7-dependent induction of surface lymphotoxin-αβ, demonstrating their potential to modify tissue microenvironments. Furthermore, expression of CCR6 on the CD4(+)CD3(-) population defines a

SUBMITTER: Bekiaris V 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3865291 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature