New insights into MAIT cells in autoimmune diseases

Mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells are resident T cells that express semi-invariant TCR chains and are restricted by monomorphic major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I-related molecules (MR1). MAIT cells can be activated by microbial-specific metabolites (MR1-dependent mode) or cytokines (MR1-independent mode). Activated MAIT cells produce chemokines, cytotoxic molecules (granzyme B and perforin), and proin-flammatory cytokines (IFN-gamma, TNF-alpha, and IL-17), to clear pathogens and target infected cells involved in the pro -inflammatory, migratory, and cytolytic properties of MAIT cells. MAIT cells produce pro-inflammatory cytokines in the target organs of autoimmune diseases and contribute to the development and progression of autoimmune diseases. This article reviews the biological characteristics, activation mechanism, dynamic migration, and dual functions of MAIT cells, and focuses on the mechanism and potential application of MAIT cells in the early diagnosis, disease activity monitoring, and therapeutic targets of autoimmune diseases, to lay a foundation for future research.

Automated summary

Mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells are T cells that reside in mucosal tissues, expressing semi-invariant TCR chains and being restricted by monomorphic MHC class I-related molecules (MR1). They can be activated by microbial-specific metabolites or cytokines. Activated MAIT cells display pro-inflammatory, migratory, and cytolytic properties through the production of chemokines, cytotoxic molecules, and pro-inflammatory cytokines. In autoimmune diseases, MAIT cells contribute to inflammation and disease progression. This review summarizes the biological characteristics, activation mechanism, dynamic migration, and dual functions of MAIT cells, and focuses on their potential applications in the diagnosis and treatment of autoimmune diseases.