Defying convention in the time of COVID-19: Insights into the role of γδ T cells

Document Type

Journal Article

Publication Date

1-1-2022

Journal

Frontiers in immunology

Volume

13

DOI

10.3389/fimmu.2022.819574

Keywords

COVID-19; SARS-CoV-2; aminobisphosphonates COVID-19; gamma delta (γδ) T cells; innate immunity

Abstract

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). COVID-19 is a complex disease which immune response can be more or less potent. In severe cases, patients might experience a cytokine storm that compromises their vital functions and impedes clearance of the infection. Gamma delta (γδ) T lymphocytes have a critical role initiating innate immunity and shaping adaptive immune responses, and they are recognized for their contribution to tumor surveillance, fighting infectious diseases, and autoimmunity. γδ T cells exist as both circulating T lymphocytes and as resident cells in different mucosal tissues, including the lungs and their critical role in other respiratory viral infections has been demonstrated. In the context of SARS-CoV-2 infection, γδ T cell responses are understudied. This review summarizes the findings on the antiviral role of γδ T cells in COVID-19, providing insight into how they may contribute to the control of infection in the mild/moderate clinical outcome.

Department

Microbiology, Immunology, and Tropical Medicine

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