Helper T-cells
Helper T cells (CD4+) have the function to induce a response from other immune cells through the production and secretion of cytokines, targeting somatic cells invaded by a foreign antigen.. These T cells can be divided into different subsets. The subsets are based on the expression of particular surface markers and on the cytokine production of the helper T cell[1].
Types of Helper T Cells
- CD 4-expressing T Helper Cells: They help B cells and to assist them in the process of differentiation into plasma cells. Helper T cells are able to do that by producing and secreting cytokines like IL-4. In addition, in order to help the particular B cell, the T cell has to be in direct contact with it.
- TH1 Helper Cells: These helper cells secrete TNF and interferon gamma. "TNF" stands for tumour necrosis factor. Interferon-gamma helps with the activation of macrophages and stimulation of an inflammatory response. In addition, TH1 helper cells produce antibodies, such as IgG1 and IgG3.
- TH2 Helper Cells: These helper cells secrete IL-10 and IL-4. IL-4 aids B cell class switching to the IgE and IgG1 isotypes.
- TH17 Helper Cells: These helper cells secrete IL-17.
- Treg Cells: A mixed arrangement of cells (including CD4+) which arise in the thymus and suppress other T cell responses as a form of feedback. They secrete suppressive cytokines TGF-B AND IL-10.
- TFH Cells: CD4+ subset found in B cell follicles of the lymph node. The are specialized to interact with B cells for co stimulation.
References
- ↑ Lodish H, Berk A, Kaiser C.A, Krieger M, Bretscher A, Ploegh H, Amon A, Martin K.C. Molecular Biology. New York: w.h.freeman Macmillan Learning. 2016.