Panel for Flow Cytometry Detection of Helper T Cells

What are Helper T Cells?

Helper T cells (Th cells) are one of the most important lymphocyte subpopulations in the immune system, primarily composed of CD4+ T cells. They play a crucial role in immune responses by acting as "commanders," coordinating the body's defence and immune homeostasis. This is achieved through the secretion of cytokines, aiding B cells in antibody production, enhancing macrophage-mediated pathogen clearance, and regulating the functions of other immune cells. Dysfunctions in Helper T cells are often linked to immune-related diseases such as infection intolerance, allergic reactions, autoimmune diseases, or tumour immune escape.

Figure 1. Helper T Cells and Immune Responses in Different Tissues (DOI: 10.1093/intimm/dxw006)

Differentiation of Helper T Cells

Naive CD4+ T cells are activated via their T cell receptor (TCR) in conjunction with co-stimulatory molecules like CD28, and through antigen-presenting cells (APCs) that express major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II molecules, such as macrophages, dendritic cells, and B cells. Activation signals are transmitted through the recognition and binding of MHC II molecules presenting homologous antigen peptides on the surface. Upon complete activation, naive CD4+ T cells rapidly proliferate and differentiate into various subsets of Helper T cells, such as Th1, Th2 or Th17 (Figure 2).

Figure 2. Development of CD4+ T Cells and Their Functional Subsets in Immunity (DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.669474)

Helper T Cells and Disease

The balance of Helper T cell subsets is crucial for immune homeostasis, and imbalance often leads to disease development. For instance, an imbalance between Th1/Th2 cells is associated with susceptibility to allergies or infections, while excessive activation of Th17 cells is linked to autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis. Defects in Treg function may result in graft rejection and failure of immune tolerance. In tumour immunotherapy, different Helper T cell subsets can provide important prognostic and therapeutic insights. Therefore, accurate and systematic detection of Helper T cell subsets is vital for both research and clinical applications.

Figure 3. Th Cells and Type II Immune Responses (DOI: 10.1038/nri.2017.118)

Flow Cytometric Detection of Helper T Cells

Flow cytometry is a critical method for detecting Helper T cells and their subsets in both research and clinical settings. By analysing surface markers, secreted cytokines, and transcription factors, it allows for efficient identification and quantification of different subsets.

Table 1. Helper T Cell Subsets and Markers

*Note: * indicates characteristic markers of cells.

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About Us

abinScience was founded in France and is focused on the development and production of high-quality life science reagents. Based in the innovative technology hub of Strasbourg, France, our vision is to "Empower Bioscience Discovery." Our flow cytometry antibody products cover common detection markers and are available in a wide range, catering to multi-species research needs. We offer stable and reliable support for scientific research. For more information on our flow cytometry antibodies, please visit: www.abinscience.com

References   

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