Gliadin-specific CD4+ T Cells

Gliadin-specific CD4+ T cells are a subset of helper T lymphocytes (CD4+ T cells) that specifically recognize and respond to gliadin, a component of gluten found in wheat and related grains. These cells play a central role in the pathogenesis of celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder triggered by dietary gluten. Upon activation, they secrete cytokines such as interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), interleukin-2 (IL-2), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and sometimes IL-10 or IL-4. Their cytokine production leads to inflammation and tissue damage in the small intestine characteristic of celiac disease. Regulatory subsets such as type 1 regulatory T (Tr1) cells can also be gliadin-specific and may help maintain tolerance or limit pathology.

Modulation of T cell activity and cytokine production