@article{10.37349/ei.2026.1003262,
abstract = {Human γδ T cells represent a minor subset of lymphocytes present in the peripheral blood. This lymphocyte subset is mainly localized within the mucosae of airways and gut. In the latter context, γδ T cells can represent a key immune cell subset involved both in regulating intestinal homeostasis and in responding to pathogens and colorectal carcinoma (CRC) growth. γδ T cell subsets such as the Vδ2+ respond to phosphate antigens produced by bacteria, while Vδ1+ cells can exert an immune response after mucosal stress stimuli. γδ T cells do not recognize as classical αβ+ T cells the peptide antigens in the context of major histocompatibility complex (MHC). γδ T cells may play a complementary role with αβ+ T cells in mucosal immunity at the gastrointestinal barrier. Colon γδ T cells can exhibit antitumor properties and regulatory functions. Indeed, human γδ T cell subsets present in the gut bear some activatory receptors, such as NKG2D and DNAX Accessory Molecule (DNAM)-1, leading to the elimination of CRC cells. By contrast, γδ T cells producing interleukin (IL)-17, transforming growth factor β, and amphiregulin show pro-tumor activity. This dual property of γδ T cells poses challenges for their use as an immunotherapeutic tool, while the MHC-independent recognition of antigens can support their use as off-the-shelf allogeneic cells.},
author = {Poggi, Alessandro},
doi = {10.37349/ei.2026.1003262},
journal = {Exploration of Immunology},
elocation-id = {1003262},
title = {Human γδ T cells in colorectal carcinoma: friends or foes},
url = {https://www.explorationpub.com/Journals/ei/Article/1003262},
volume = {6},
year = {2026}
}