Development, regulation and functional capacities of Th17 cells

T helper (Th) 17 cells have been classified as a new lineage, distinct from Th1, Th2 and Treg. Their development requires a unique combination of cytokines and depends on distinct intracellular events, resulting in the production of the signature cytokines interleukin (IL)-17A, IL-17F and IL-22. The differential cytokine expression patterns in Th cells suggest a division of labour in the response against a variety of pathogens. Th17 have an important function in the host-defense-response against extracellular pathogens, but they also have become notorious for their role in the pathogenesis of many autoimmune and allergic disorders. Animal models of autoimmune disorders have shown that Th17 effector molecules and transcription factors play a crucial role in both development and maintenance of the disease. The discovery of Th17 not only enhanced our insight into these disorders but also placed a Th subset at the interface between the innate and adoptive immune systems with the potential to regulate subsequent immunity against pathogens.