Memory γδ T cells–newly appreciated protagonists in infection and immunity

SJ Lalor, RM McLoughlin - Trends in immunology, 2016 - cell.com
Trends in immunology, 2016cell.com
Despite the potential for diversity in their T cell receptor, γδ T cells are primarily considered
to be innate immune cells. Recently, memory-like γδ T cell responses have been identified
in murine models of infection and autoimmunity. Similar memory responses have also been
described in human and non-human primate γδ T cells. It has thus become clear that
subpopulations of γδ T cells can develop long-lasting memory akin to conventional αβ T
cells, with protective and pathogenic consequences. Hence, a re-evaluation of their true …
Despite the potential for diversity in their T cell receptor, γδ T cells are primarily considered to be innate immune cells. Recently, memory-like γδ T cell responses have been identified in murine models of infection and autoimmunity. Similar memory responses have also been described in human and non-human primate γδ T cells. It has thus become clear that subpopulations of γδ T cells can develop long-lasting memory akin to conventional αβ T cells, with protective and pathogenic consequences. Hence, a re-evaluation of their true capabilities and role in infection and immunity is required. This review discusses recent reports of memory-type responses attributed to γδ T cells and assesses this underappreciated facet of these enigmatic cells.
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