Follicular Helper T Cells and Autoimmune Diseases

Abstract

Follicular helper T (Tfh) cells can control the antibody affinity maturation and memory by supporting the formation of germinal center (GC) and regulating clonal selection and differentiation of memory and antibody-secreting B cells. Therefore, Tfh cells play an important role in the development of some autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and autoimmune hepatitis. The generation and function of Tfh cells are determined by T-cell antigen receptor (TCR), co-stimulation, and cytokine signals, together with specific mechanisms. In this part, the specialization, development, and regulation of metabolic and differentiation mechanisms on Tfh cells will be summarized, which is crucial to understanding pathogenesis and informing the development of emerging therapies for autoimmune diseases.