Development and regulation of RORγt+ innate lymphoid cells

ROR gamma t(+) innate lymphoid cells (ILCs), or ILC3, play a fundamental role in the development of lymphoid tissues, as well as in homeostasis and defence of mucosal tissues. These cells produce IL-22, IL-17A and LT alpha 1 beta 2, key cytokines for the activation of epithelial defences and the recruitment of polymorphonuclear phagocytes. In the absence of ILC3, the early defence to infection and resistance to injury are compromised. Given the importance of ILC3 in mucosal immunity, significant efforts are made to discover their multiple functions and decipher their mode of action and regulation. (C) 2014 Federation of European Biochemical Societies. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.