Th17细胞与肝脏疾病

Th17 cells and liver diseases

辅助性T细胞(Th细胞)根据产生细胞因子和生物学功能分为Th1和Th2细胞。最近研究发现了一种与Th1和Th2细胞亚群不同的活化CD4+T细胞亚群—Th17细胞。TGFβ-与IL-6或IL-21的协同作用,诱导Th17细胞分化。IL-12家族的IL-23在促进IL-17分泌、增强Th17细胞效应功能方面发挥重要作用,而RORγt是其特异性转录因子。分化成熟的Th17细胞可以分泌IL-17A、IL-17F、IL-21、IL-22、IL-6、TNF-α等多种细胞因子,在介导炎性反应(防御病原菌感染)、自身免疫性疾病、肿瘤、移植排斥反应等过程中发挥重要作用。Th17细胞也为研究肝脏疾病的发病机制及防治策略提供了新思路和方向。

Following activation, CD4^＋ T cells could be categorized into two distinct subsets, T helper type 1 （Thl） and Th2, based on their cytokine profile and biological functions. In light of recent data, a new subset of activated CD4^＋ cells which is termed Th17 cells is discovered . The differentiation of Th17 cells requires the coordinate action of transforming growth factor （TGF-β） and interleukin-6（IL 6） or interleukin-21 （IL 21）. In addition, The IL- 12 family member IL-23 plays an important role in inducing IL 17 secretion and maintaining Th17 effector function, RORγt is its specific transcription factor. Th17 cells are characterized by the secretion of IL 17A, IL-17F, IL 21, IL-22, IL-6, TNF-α, which are involved in pro-inflammatory process （host defending against certain pathogens）, autoimmunity, tumor, allograft rejection. Th17 cells also provides a new insight for the pathogenesis and therapy of the liver diseases.