CD4 T cells gain innate function after activation
D4 T cells are known for their role in adaptive immunity, but new research led by the Joller Lab at DQBM shows they can also acquire innate-like functions. Upon classical T cell activation, both murine and human CD4 T cells gain the capacity to produce IFN-γ in a TCR-independent manner when stimulated by cytokines such as IL-12 and IL-33. These “TIA” cells emerge across diverse infection models and can be generated in vitro, retaining functional activity in vivo.
Importantly, the study highlights key differences between human and murine CD4 TIA cells in cytokine responsiveness and surface marker expression. The results indicate a more ubiquitous role for CD4 TIA cells than previously understood, with implications for infection, autoimmunity, and immunotherapy.
Read the full publication: https://doi.org/10.1002/eji.70054