The mechanisms of Gamma delta T cells in the occurrence and development of hepatocellular carcinoma

Abstract

Abstract γδ T cells are unique population of T cells in which their function still remain unclear. We have demonstrated that γδ T cell mainly located in the liver in mice. Our previous data based on liver transplantation model suggests that γδT cells are involved in the processes of liver transplant tolerance and rejection, and may play a role in the induction of liver graft rejection. In contrast to Foxp3+ CD4+ CD25+ Treg, the majority of γδT cells were mainly located in the liver and did not express TCRαβ and NK receptors, but expressed moderate levels of PD-1 and PD-L1 molecules. It has recently been shown that γδT cells play an important role against tumors and infectious diseases. Methods In this study we employed mouse orthotopic hepatocellular carcinoma model, critically examine the role of γδ T cells in the liver and peripheral on liver cancer development. Results The ratio of CD3+ T cells were decreased, but γδ T cells were increased in the surrounding tissue of the tumor and the spleen. Anti-γδ T cells antibody plus IL-2 treatment to tumor barrier mice could further increase the γδ T cells in the liver and spleen and limited the growth of the tumor. Conclusion γδ T cell may plays an important role in immunologic defence against hepatocellular carcinoma. More studies underlying the mechanisms and interplay among liver immune cells are under investigation.