CD4-positive T helper cell (Th cell)

CD4+ T helper cells are a specialized subset of lymphocytes that play a central role in orchestrating the adaptive immune response. They are characterized by the expression of the CD4 surface glycoprotein, which acts as a co-receptor for the T-cell receptor (TCR) by binding to MHC class II molecules on antigen-presenting cells [1][2]. Upon activation, these cells differentiate into various functional subsets, such as Th1, Th2, and Th17, which secrete specific cytokines to regulate the activity of B cells, cytotoxic T cells, and macrophages [2][3]. In clinical contexts, CD4+ T cells are the primary target of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), leading to their depletion and subsequent immunodeficiency [4]. Conversely, their dysregulation is a key factor in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases and chronic inflammatory conditions [5]. Therapeutic strategies targeting these cells include the use of immunosuppressants like cyclosporine to inhibit activation or monoclonal antibodies like ibalizumab to block viral entry [6]. Sources: [1] Janeway CA Jr, et al. (2001). Immunobiology: The Immune System in Health and Disease. 5th edition. Garland Science. [2] Luckheeram RV, et al. (2012). CD4+ T Cells: Differentiation and Functions. Clin Dev Immunol. 2012:925135. [3] Zhu J, Paul WE. (2008). CD4 T cells: fates, functions, and faults. Blood. 112(5):1557-1569. [4] National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID). HIV/AIDS. [5] StatPearls. Cyclosporine. [6] DrugBank. Ibalizumab.

Other names

CD4+ T cellsT-helper cellsCD4+ lymphocytesHelper T lymphocytesCD4-positive T cells

Modulation of T-cell activation, depletion of specific T-cell subsets, or inhibition of viral entry into the cell.