The inflammatory Th 17 subset in immunity against self and non-self antigens.

T helper cells (Th cells) are traditionally thought to differentiate into Th1 and Th2 subsets based on their cytokine profiles. Recently, a subset of interleukin (IL)-17-producing cells (Th17 cells) which develop and function in a distinct way from Th1 or Th2 cells has been identified. Th17 cells have been shown to play a crucial role in the induction of autoimmune tissue injuries, inflammation and infection. Studies on Th17 subset and its relevant issues offered potential therapeutic targets for patients with autoimmune diseases, cancer, infection and transplant, which may have significant impacts in the prevention and/or treatment of immunity-related diseases in clinics.