Differentiation and functional plasticity of gamma-delta (γδ) T cells under homeostatic and disease conditions

Gamma-delta (gamma delta) T cells are a heterogeneous population of immune cells, which constitute <5% of total T cells in mice lymphoid tissue and human peripheral blood. However, they comprise a higher proportion of T cells in the epithelial and mucosal barrier, where they perform immune functions, help in tissue repair, and maintaining homeostasis. These tissues resident gamma delta T cells possess properties of innate and adaptive immune cells which enables them to perform a variety of functions during homeostasis and disease. Emerging data suggest the involvement of gamma delta T cells during transplant rejection and survival. Interestingly, several functions of gamma delta T cells can be modulated through their interaction with other immune cells. This review provides an overview of development, differentiation plasticity into regulatory and effector phenotypes of gamma delta T cells during homeostasis and various diseases.

Automated summary

Gamma-delta (γδ) T cells are a heterogeneous population of immune cells that make up <5% of total T cells in mice lymphoid tissue and human peripheral blood. They play important roles in immune functions, tissue repair, and maintaining homeostasis, especially in epithelial and mucosal barriers. These tissue-resident γδ T cells possess properties of both innate and adaptive immune cells, enabling them to participate in various functions during homeostasis and diseases, including transplant rejection and survival. Their functions can be modulated through interactions with other immune cells.