What are the functions of each subset of CD4 T cells?
Posted April 17, 2024
Answer
CD4 T cells can be broadly classified into 5 subsets based on their specific functions:
- Th1 cells: Th1 cells are a group of pro-inflammatory cytokines that play a crucial role in cell-mediated immunity. They activate macrophages to combat intracellular pathogens, such as viruses and certain bacteria and support the development of cytotoxic T cells that can directly kill infected cells.
- Th2 cells: Th2 cells are a group of anti-inflammatory cytokines that are involved in humoral immunity. They play a key role in the production of antibodies by B cells and in activating other cells such as eosinophils that work to eliminate extracellular pathogens during allergic responses and parasitic infections.
- Th17 cells: Th17 cells are involved in producing interleukin-17 (IL-17), a signaling molecule that stimulates other immune cells. They are primarily responsible for maintaining mucosal barriers and contributing to clearance of pathogens at mucosal surfaces.
- Treg cells (Regulatory T cells): Treg cells play a critical role in maintaining homeostasis and self-tolerance by monitoring immune tolerance and suppressing excessive immune responses to self-antigens and preventing autoimmunity.
- Tfh cells (Follicular Helper T cells): Tfh cells play a specialized role in providing assistance to B cells. They are crucial for the formation of germinal centers, the maturation of antibodies with high affinity, and the development of memory B cells.
Additional resources
CD4 T Helper Cell Subsets and Related Human Immunological Disorders