CD4-positive, alpha-beta T cell (CD4+ T cell)

CD4-positive, alpha-beta T cells (CD4+ T cells or helper T cells) are a subset of lymphocytes essential for orchestrating adaptive immune responses. They express the CD4 surface glycoprotein and an αβ heterodimeric T-cell receptor (TCR). These cells activate and regulate other immune cell types through cytokine secretion and cell-to-cell interactions. CD4+ T cells differentiate into specialized effector subsets (Th1, Th2, Th17, TFH, iTreg/Tr1) with distinct functions in coordinating immune responses against various pathogens and regulating inflammation. Their depletion, as seen in HIV/AIDS, leads to severe immunodeficiency. Genetic variations affecting these cells influence susceptibility to autoimmune diseases.

Other names

Helper T cellCD4+ αβ T cellCD4-positive T cell

Modulation of T cell activation, cytokine production, and interaction with other immune cells. HIV infects and depletes CD4+ T cells.