Th17 pathogenic (original) (raw)

Th17 pathogenic refers to a distinct phenotype of Th17 cells which is associated with immunopathology. The development of the pathogenic phenotype can be shaped by various environmental stimuli and genetic factors. In humans, Th17 pathogenic cells are associated with diseases like multiple sclerosis (MS) or rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and in mice with experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). Th17 pathogenic cells are known to display pro-inflammatory features like expressing transcription factor T-bet and secreting cytokine IFNγ, resembling Th1-like phenotype. Th17 cells are a very heterogenous subset and can switch to display all T helper-like phenotype markers including those typical for Th2, Treg and Tfh.