Genetic models reveal origin, persistence and non-redundant functions of IL-17-producing γδ T cells.

ABSTRACT: γδ T cells are highly conserved in jawed vertebrates, suggesting an essential role in the immune system. However, γδ T cell-deficient Tcrd ^-/- mice display surprisingly mild phenotypes. We hypothesized that the lack of γδ T cells in constitutive Tcrd ^-/- mice is functionally compensated by other lymphocytes taking over genuine γδ T cell functions. To test this, we generated a knock-in model for diphtheria toxin-mediated conditional γδ T cell depletion. In contrast to IFN-γ-producing γδ T cells, IL-17-producing γδ T cells (Tγδ17 cells) recovered inefficiently after depletion, and their niches were filled by expanding Th17 cells and ILC3s. Complementary genetic fate mapping further demonstrated that Tγδ17 cells are long-lived and persisting lymphocytes. In

SUBMITTER: Sandrock I 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6279411 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature