T helper cell type 2 (Th2)

T helper cell type 2 (Th2) cells are a specialized subset of CD4+ T lymphocytes that play a central role in orchestrating the humoral, or antibody-mediated, immune response. They are crucial for defense against extracellular parasites such as helminths and also contribute to the pathogenesis of allergic diseases like asthma and atopic dermatitis. Th2 cells mediate immune responses primarily by producing cytokines including IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-9, IL-13, and IL-17E (IL-25). These cytokines stimulate B cell class-switching to IgE and IgG1, recruit eosinophils and basophils to sites of infection or inflammation, and induce mucus production and goblet cell hyperplasia in epithelial tissues. They also inhibit certain macrophage functions to favor phagocyte-independent immunity. Differentiation is driven by IL-4. They counterbalance Th1-mediated cellular immunity—thus maintaining immune homeostasis but potentially contributing to disease if imbalanced.

Other names

Type 2 helper T cellTh2 cell

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