Resident Human Dermal Gamma Delta T-Cells Operate as Stress Sentinels: Lessons from the Hair Follicle

The study explored the role of human dermal γδT-cells in stress response and autoimmunity, particularly in the context of hair follicles (HFs) and alopecia areata (AA). Researchers used an ex vivo human scalp HF organ culture model to investigate how γδT-cells interact with stressed HFs. They found that γδT-cells are recruited and activated by stress-induced ligands from HFs, leading to cytotoxic effects that contribute to HF immune privilege collapse and premature catagen, key features of AA. This model provided insights into the specific interactions of human γδT-cells, overcoming limitations of murine models and offering a clinically relevant tool for studying these mechanisms.