Inflammation and autoimmune diseases are complex processes involving various primary immune cells. Understanding these cells is crucial for developing targeted therapies and improving disease outcomes.​

Key Primary Immune Cells in Inflammation and Autoimmunity

Reduced Experimental Artifacts – Unlike immortalized cells, primary cells are not genetically modified, ensuring natural behavior.

• Macrophages: These versatile cells play dual roles. M1 macrophages promote inflammation by producing pro-inflammatory cytokines, while M2 macrophages aid in tissue repair and resolution of inflammation. 

• Dendritic Cells (DCs): Acting as antigen-presenting cells, DCs bridge innate and adaptive immunity. They process and present antigens to T cells, initiating immune responses. ​

Understanding the roles of these primary cells in inflammation and autoimmunity is essential for developing targeted therapies and improving patient outcomes.

• T Lymphocytes:

  • Helper T Cells (CD4⁺): Different subsets (Th1, Th2, Th17) orchestrate various immune responses. Th17 cells, in particular, are implicated in autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis. ​

  • Cytotoxic T Cells (CD8⁺): Responsible for killing infected or aberrant cells.​

  • Regulatory T Cells (Tregs): Maintain immune tolerance and prevent autoimmunity by suppressing excessive immune responses. ​

• B Lymphocytes:

  • Plasma Cells: Differentiate from B cells to produce antibodies.​

  • Regulatory B Cells (Bregs): Produce anti-inflammatory cytokines like IL-10, modulating immune responses and maintaining tolerance. ​

• Natural Killer (NK) Cells: Part of the innate immune system, NK cells can destroy infected or transformed cells without prior sensitization. They also produce cytokines that influence adaptive immunity. ​

• Natural Killer T (NKT) Cells: These hybrid cells share properties of both NK and T cells. They recognize lipid antigens and can rapidly produce cytokines, influencing various immune responses. 

• Microglia: Resident immune cells of the central nervous system, microglia monitor the brain environment and respond to injury or disease by clearing debris and modulating inflammation. ​

• Mast Cells: Involved in allergic reactions and defense against parasites, they release histamine and other mediators that contribute to inflammation.

• Neutrophils: First responders to infection, they phagocytose pathogens and release enzymes that can also damage host tissues if not regulated. ​

• Eosinophils and Basophils: Play roles in parasitic infections and allergic responses by releasing granules containing inflammatory mediators. ​