SHORT ANALYTICAL REVIEW
γδ T Cells in Host Defense and Epithelial Cell Biology

https://doi.org/10.1006/clin.1997.4468Get rights and content

Abstract

Recent studies have demonstrated increased numbers of γδ T cells in a variety of human infectious as well as noninfectious diseases. In some cases γδ T cells could be shown to destroy infected or transformed cells. Advances in the identification of ligands recognized by γδ T cells and the development of animal model systems to study these cellsin vivoshould overcome some of the major obstacles currently preventing a better understanding of γδ T cell function in immune responses. As we gain this knowledge it may become possible to design therapeutic strategies exploiting unique properties of γδ T cells to promote more effective immunity.

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