A review examines cytotoxic CD4+ T cells that expand with age and how their protective and pathological roles influence age-related diseases.
Key Takeaways
- Cytotoxic CD4+ T cells express perforin and granzymes and arise after prolonged antigen exposure
- These CD4 CTLs can target senescent cells, viruses, and tumors, contributing to immune surveillance
- Aberrant or misdirected CD4 CTL programs are linked to autoimmunity, neurodegeneration, and severe infections