Cell-contact-dependent activation of CD4 + T cells by adhesion molecules on synovial fibroblasts

Results : SF enhanced naïve CD4 + T cell proliferation and IFN-γ/IL-17 production in cell-contact and in part ICAM-1-/VCAM-1-dependent manner. Plate-coated ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 enhanced naïve CD4 + T cell proliferation and IFN-γ production, while VCAM-1 efficiently promoting IL-17 production. CD161 + naïve T cells upregulating LFA-1 and VLA-4 were the major source of IFN-γ/IL-17 upon interaction with ICAM-1/VCAM-1.

Conclusion : CD4 + T cells rapidly expand and secrete IFN-γ/IL-17 upon cell-contact with SF via adhesion molecules. Interfering with ICAM-1-/VCAM-1 may be beneficial for inhibiting RA synovitis.