Effector and suppressor T cells in celiac disease

Core Tip

Core tip: Although it is evident that effector gliadin-specific Th1 cells play an important role in celiac disease (CD) pathogenesis, recent studies have implicated Th17 effector cells in the disease process. Contrasting evidence has been reported on the ability of gliadin-specific cells to produce IL-17A. In addition, regulatory T cells, formerly known as suppressor T cells, have been identified in intestinal biopsy specimens of patients with active CD. Nevertheless, despite the presence of an endogenous counter-regulatory mechanism in the intestinal mucosa of celiac patients, the inflammatory response is not suppressed. In this review, we provide an overview of the current knowledge of the contribution of both Th1 and Th17 effector T cells and Treg cells in controlling mucosal inflammation in CD.