Exploiting the role of T cells in the pathogenesis of Sjögren’s syndrome for therapeutic treatment

Abstract

Sjögrens syndrome (SS) is caused by autoantibodies that attack proprioceptive salivary and lacrimal gland tissues. Damage to the glands leads to dry mouth and eyes and affects multiple systems and organs. In severe cases, SS is life-threatening because it can lead to interstitial lung disease, renal insufficiency, and lymphoma. Histological examination of the labial minor salivary glands of patients with SS reveals focal lymphocyte aggregation of T and B cells. More studies have been conducted on the role of B cells in the pathogenesis of SS, whereas the role of T cells has only recently attracted the attention of researchers. This review focusses on the role of various populations of T cells in the pathogenesis of SS and the progress made in research to therapeutically targeting T cells for the treatment of patients with SS.

Functional significance of DNA methylation: epigenetic insights into Sjögren’s syndrome

“…In the context of SjS, immune cells, particularly lymphocytes, infiltrate the affected glands and contribute to inflammation and tissue damage. These immune cells release cytokines and other signaling molecules that further promote inflammation and disrupt normal gland function ( 116 , 117 ). The interaction between SjS and immune cells is complex.…”

“…T cells, including CD4 + and CD8 + T cells, are overwhelming infiltrators in most phases of the SjS ( 116 ). Specifically, the engagement of various T-cell subsets in Sjögren’s syndrome (SjS) underscores the remarkable complexity of the disease’s pathogenesis ( 116 ).…”

Advances in imaging of the lacrimal gland in Sjögren's syndrome: A narrative review

“…27 Patients with SS who had their lip minor salivary glands histologically examined demonstrated localized lymphocyte accumulation of T cells and B cells. 28 In addition to changing tear flow, SS additionally affects the makeup of tears, producing more inflammatory and proteolytic tears. 29,30 Changes in tear composition during inflammation have the potential to damage the ocular surface by causing apoptosis and autophagy in epithelial cells.…”

“…Through inflammation and apoptosis of glandular cells, T cells, B cells, and autoantibodies cause tissue damage 27 . Patients with SS who had their lip minor salivary glands histologically examined demonstrated localized lymphocyte accumulation of T cells and B cells 28 …”

A meta‐analysis on the impact of spinal cord stimulation on post‐operative wound healing in patients with multiple sclerosis

“…Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) has been increasingly recognized as a promising therapy for managing symptoms in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients 2–4 . MS, a complex neurological condition, presents a wide array of symptoms due to the immune system's attack on the central nervous system, leading to nerve damage and disrupted messaging between the body and brain 5 . These symptoms, including numbness or weakness in limbs, tremors, fatigue, and vision problems, can be challenging to manage with conventional treatments.…”