TCRαβ+CD3+CD4−CD8− (double negative) T cells in autoimmunity

Publication date: Available online 9 February 2018
Source:Autoimmunity Reviews
Author(s): D. Brandt, C.M. Hedrich
TCRαβ⁺CD3⁺CD4⁻CD8⁻ "double negative" (DN) T cells comprise a small subset of mature peripheral T cells. The origin and function of DN T cells are somewhat unclear and discussed controversially. While DN T cells resemble a rare and heterogeneous T cell subpopulation in healthy individuals, numbers of TCRαβ⁺ DN T cells are expanded in several inflammatory conditions, where they also exhibit distinct effector phenotypes and infiltrate inflamed tissues. Thus, DN T cells may be involved in systemic inflammation and tissue damage in autoimmune/inflammatory conditions, including SLE, Sjögren's syndrome, and psoriasis. Here, the current understanding of the origin and phenotype of DN T cells, and their role in the instruction of immune responses, autoimmunity and inflammation will be discussed in health and disease.



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