T HELPER 17 (TH17) & CYTOKINES SIGNALING PATHWAY

T Helper 17 (Th17) cells are a distinct subset of CD4+ T cells that play a critical role in the immune system by producing a variety of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin-17 (IL-17), IL-21, and IL-22. These cells are essential for host defense against extracellular pathogens, particularly bacteria and fungi, and are implicated in the pathogenesis of several autoimmune and inflammatory diseases.

AnyGenes offers advanced qPCR array products specifically designed to investigate key biomarkers and signaling pathways associated with T Helper 17 cell activation and function. Our qPCR arrays provide researchers with valuable tools to explore gene expression profiles critical for understanding the role of Th17 cells in health and disease.

The plasticity of T helper 17 cells. TH17 cell plasticity and its beneficial (left) or detrimental (right)effects on host immunity depend on the type of challenge faced by the host.

T HELPER 17 (Th17) DIFFERENTIATION

The differentiation of naive CD4+ T cells into Th17 cells is primarily driven by specific cytokines present in the environment. Key cytokines involved in this process include:

Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-β): This pathway is essential for initiating Th17 cell development and promoting their pro-inflammatory functions.
Interleukin-6 (IL-6): Promotes Th17 cell differentiation in conjunction with transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β).
Interleukin-21 (IL-21): Enhances the differentiation and proliferation of Th17 cells.
Interleukin-23 (IL-23): Critical for the maintenance and expansion of Th17 cells, enhancing their pro-inflammatory cytokine production.

SIGNALING PATHWAYS

The Th17 signaling pathway involves several crucial steps:

Activation of T Cells: Upon antigen recognition, naive CD4+ T cells are activated by antigen-presenting cells (APCs) and receive signals from IL-6 and TGF-β, leading to the expression of the transcription factor RORγt, which is pivotal for Th17 differentiation.
Cytokine Production: Differentiated Th17 cells produce IL-17 and other cytokines that recruit and activate other immune cells, such as neutrophils and macrophages, enhancing the inflammatory response.
Feedback Loop: IL-17 can stimulate various cells, including fibroblasts and epithelial cells, to produce additional cytokines and chemokines, creating a feedback loop that amplifies the inflammatory response.

ROLE OF T HELPER 17 Th17 CELLS IN DISEASES

Th17 cells are implicated in various diseases, including:

Autoimmune Disorders: Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and psoriasis show increased Th17 activity and elevated levels of IL-17.
Chronic Inflammation: Th17 cells contribute to the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases, where their dysregulation can lead to tissue damage and chronic inflammation.
Infectious diseases: such as Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Infection, Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) and HBV Infection.

IMPLICATION FOR THERAPEUTIC STRATEGIES

Research into Th17 cells and cytokine signaling offers promising avenues for therapeutic interventions, particularly in autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Targeting Th17 cell pathways, such as the IL-17 and IL-23 axes, has shown potential in reducing inflammation and controlling immune responses. This approach could help manage conditions like psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis.

Additionally, modulating Th17 cell activity may enhance therapies for infections where a robust immune response is crucial. By focusing on these signaling pathways, therapies can be developed to precisely balance immune activation, potentially minimizing side effects and improving patient outcomes.

(1) Ettinger M, et al. Th17-associated cytokines IL-17 and IL-23 in inflamed skin of Darier disease patients as potential therapeutic targets. Nat Commun. (2023)17;14(1):7470.

(2) Bhaumik S, Basu R. Cellular and Molecular Dynamics of Th17 Differentiation and its Developmental Plasticity in the Intestinal Immune Response. Front Immunol. (2017)31:8:254..

(3) Stockinger B, Omenetti S. The dichotomous nature of T helper 17 cells. Nat Rev Immunol. (2017);17(9):535-544.

(4) Zambrano-Zaragoza JF, et al. Th17 Cells in Autoimmune and Infectious Diseases. Int J Inflam. (2014)3;2014:651503.

T HELPER 17 (TH17) & CYTOKINES SIGNALING PATHWAY BIOMARKER LIST

Customize your own signaling pathways (SignArrays®) with the factors of your choice!
Simply download and complete our Personalized SignArrays® information file and send it at [email protected] to get started on your project.

You can check the biomarker list included in this pathway, see below :

Species : Homo sapiens (human)

Signaling Pathways	Product ref	Informations
T helper 17 (Th17) & Cytokines Signaling Pathway	TH171H1	List infos

Species : Mus musculus (mouse)

Signaling Pathways	Product ref	Informations
T helper 17 (Th17) & Cytokines Signaling Pathway	TH171M1	List infos

Species : Rattus norvegicus (rat)

Signaling Pathways	Product ref	Informations
T helper 17 (Th17) & Cytokines Signaling Pathway	*******	List In progress...

Species : Sus Scrofa (Pig)

Signaling Pathways	Product ref	Informations
T helper 17 (Th17) & Cytokines Signaling Pathway	*******	List In progress...

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