Current progress in γδ T-cell biology

T lymphocytes bearing gamma- and delta-chain T-cell receptor heterodimers are named gamma delta T cells. Interestingly, gamma delta and alpha beta T cells share the same progenitors, and they undergo a fate decision in the thymus. Functional differentiation of gamma delta T cells occurs both inside and outside the thymus. Antigen recognition of gamma delta T-cell receptors is very unique, and the responses frequently exhibit innate characteristics. Nevertheless, peripheral gamma delta T cells exert a number of effector and regulatory functions. gamma delta T cells rapidly produce cytokines like interferon (IFN)-gamma and IL-17 and promote inflammation, partly due to the inherent epigenetic and transcriptional programs, which facilitates a quick and extensive response. Moreover, gamma delta T cells lyse target cells directly, and this is necessary for pathogen or tumor clearance. gamma delta T cells can even serve as regulatory cells, and may contribute to immune suppression. Orchestration of gamma delta T-cell and other immune cell interactions may be critical for host defense and immune regulation. Recently, gamma delta T cells have been used for immunotherapy for infectious diseases and malignancy. In this review, we summarize the abstracts presented at the recent gamma delta T cell Conference held from 19 to 21 May 2010, in Kiel, Germany (please see the website for details: http://www.gammadelta-conference.uni-kiel.de/index.html). Cellular & Molecular Immunology (2010) 7, 409-413; doi: 10.1038/cmi.2010.50; published online 11 October 2010