Autoimmune diseases in the TH17 era

Abstract

A new subtype of CD4 + T lymphocytes characterized by the production of interleukin 17, i.e., TH17 cells, has been recently described. This novel T cell subset is distinct from type 1 and type 2 T helper cells. The major feature of this subpopulation is to generate significant amounts of pro-inflammatory cytokines, therefore appearing to be critically involved in protection against infection caused by extracellular microorganisms, and in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases and allergy. The dynamic balance among subsets of T cells is important for the modulation of several steps of the immune response. Disturbances in this balance may cause a shift from normal immunologic physiology to the development of immune-mediated disorders. In autoimmune diseases, the fine balance between the proportion and degree of activation of the various T lymphocyte subsets can contribute to persistent undesirable inflammatory responses and tissue replacement by fibrosis. This review highlights the importance of TH17 cells in this process by providing an update on the biology of these cells and focusing on their biology and differentiation processes in the context of immune-mediated chronic inflammatory diseases.

Transforming growth factor β (CiTGF-β) gene expression is induced in the inflammatory reaction of Ciona intestinalis

“…This initial recognition of infection leads to the production of a variety of inflammatory mediators, including cytokines, that play an important role in host defence via the induction of pro-inflammatory gene expression and promoting cell infiltration (Mesquita et al, 2009;Hartupee et al, 2007).…”

Ciona intestinalis interleukin 17-like genes expression is upregulated by LPS challenge

“…In mammals, interleukin 17 is a member of the proinflammatory cytokine family, it bridges the innate and adaptive arms of the immune system, and is mainly produced by a subset of T helper (Th) cells named Th17 (Moisan et al, 2007). Two forms, IL-17A and F, play an important role in host defence via the induction of proinflammatory gene expression, promoting cell infiltration and production of several proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines (Hartupee et al, 2007;Mesquita et al, 2009). These two genes are present in tandem on the same chromosome.…”

Immunopathogenesis Based Adamantiades- Behcet Disease Vasculitis Treatment

“…Interleukin-6 and TGF-are considered to be the major cytokines responsible for the differentiation of these cells from naïve T cells. Recent studies have shown a possible role for these cells in the majority of systemic and organspecific autoimmune diseases (Mesquita et al, 2009). Concerning ABD, active disease is characterized by high serum levels of IL-6 and IL-17, compared to patients in remission, while serum levels of IL-23 and IL-17 are reported to be elevated in active uveitis.…”