The number and activity of CD3+TCR V α7.2+CD161+ cells are increased in children with acute rheumatic fever

Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) is an autoimmune disease caused by group A β-hemolytic streptococci (GAS) and may develop into rheumatic heart disease (RHD). The pathogenesis of the ARF and RHD involves molecular mimicry and antibody-mediated mechanisms. T cell involvement is described in various stages of the disease. Mucosal associated invariant T (MAIT) cells are enric hed at the mucosa and are present in the blood and may be activated by GAS.
Source: International Journal of Cardiology - Category: Cardiology Authors: Source Type: research