Helper T cell type 17 differentiation (Th17 differentiation)

Helper T cell type 17 differentiation is the process by which naive CD4+ T lymphocytes become Th17 cells, a subset of T helper cells defined by their production of interleukin-17 (IL-17) and other pro-inflammatory cytokines. This differentiation is orchestrated by cytokines such as transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-21 (IL-21), and interleukin-23 (IL-23), and is regulated by the transcription factors RORγt, STAT3, IRF4, and BATF. Th17 cells are key mediators of immune response against extracellular pathogens and play a central role in the development and pathogenesis of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. While the process itself is not a direct drug target, several components (e.g., IL-17A, RORγt) are considered important therapeutic targets.

Other names

Th17 cell differentiationT helper 17 cell differentiationTh17 lineage commitment