Butyrophilins: γδ T Cell Receptor Ligands, Immunomodulators and More

Butyrophilins (BTN) are relatives of the B7 family (e.g., CD80, PD-L1). They fulfill a wide range of functions including immunomodulation and bind to various receptors such as the gamma delta T cell receptor (gamma delta TCR) and small molecules. One intensively studied molecule is BTN3A1, which binds via its cytoplasmic B30.2 domain, metabolites of isoprenoid synthesis, designated as phosphoantigen (PAg), The enrichment of PAgs in tumors or infected cells is sensed by V gamma 9V delta 2 T cells, leading to the proliferation and execution of effector functions to remove these cells. This article discusses the contribution of BTNs, the related BTNL molecules and SKINT1 to the development, activation, and homeostasis of gamma delta T cells and their immunomodulatory potential, which makes them interesting targets for therapeutic intervention.

Automated summary

This article discusses the role of BTNs, related molecules, and SKINT1 in the development, activation, and homeostasis of γδT cells, as well as their potential as interesting targets for therapeutic intervention.