Th17 cells
Pronunciation: T-H-seventeen cells
Pro-inflammatory T helper cells that produce IL-17 and play a crucial role in autoimmune CNS diseases.
Full Definition
T helper 17 (Th17) cells are a subset of CD4+ T helper cells characterized by their production of interleukin-17 (IL-17) and other inflammatory cytokines. These cells are critically involved in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis and other autoimmune neurological conditions. Th17 cells can cross the blood-brain barrier and promote inflammation within the CNS by recruiting neutrophils and activating resident microglial cells. They represent a key therapeutic target in neuroimmunological diseases and are distinct from the traditional Th1/Th2 paradigm.
Usage
Usage note: Always use numeral '17' rather than spelling out 'seventeen'.
In Context
- "Increased Th17 cell infiltration was observed in active MS lesions." — Pathology report
- "The drug specifically targets Th17 cell differentiation pathways." — Clinical trial protocol