Distinct spatial and temporal roles for Th1, Th2, and Th17 cells in asthma

Immune response in the asthmatic respiratory tract is mainly driven by CD4(+) T helper (Th) cells, represented by Th1, Th2, and Th17 cells, especially Th2 cells. Asthma is a heterogeneous and progressive disease, reflected by distinct phenotypes orchestrated by tau h2 or non-Th2 (Th1 and Th17) immune responses at different stages of the disease course. Heterogeneous cytokine expression within the same Th effector state in response to changing conditions in vivo and interlineage relationship among CD4(+) T cells shape the complex immune networks of the inflammatory airway, making it difficult to find one panacea for all asthmatics. Here, we review the role of three T helper subsets in the pathogenesis of asthma from different stages, highlighting timing is everything in the immune system. We also discuss the dynamic topography of Th subsets and pathogenetic memory Th cells in asthma.

Automated summary

The immune response in the asthmatic respiratory tract is driven by CD4(+) T helper cells, especially Th2 cells. Asthma is a heterogeneous and progressive disease, with different stages of the disease course showing different immune responses. The complex immune networks in the inflammatory airway make it challenging to find a universal treatment for all asthmatics.