Uncovering the Role of Unconventional Immune Cells in Gut Inflammation

Recent research from the Institute of Science Tokyo sheds light on an intriguing aspect of gut immunity, focusing on a special type of immune cell known as double negative T (DNT) cells. These cells are highly prevalent in the intestine, yet their functions have remained largely mysterious until now. In a pioneering study published in Nature Communications, scientists used advanced live imaging techniques to observe DNT cells within living animal models.

The study revealed that DNT cells are not just passive inhabitants but active players in maintaining intestinal health by suppressing inflammation. Through intravital microscopy, researchers visualized how these cells move independently and act as antigen-presenting cells—meaning they can process and present antigens to other immune cells, specifically naïve CD4+ T cells.

Interestingly, DNT cells do not express the co-stimulatory molecules typically necessary for full T cell activation. Instead, their presentation of antigens leads to a state of non-responsiveness or immune tolerance, which is crucial for preventing excessive inflammation. When DNT cell function was impaired in mouse models, intestinal inflammation worsened, mirroring conditions like Crohn's disease in humans. Moreover, similar dysfunction was observed in samples from Crohn's patients, suggesting that DNT cell impairment could contribute to disease development.

This groundbreaking discovery introduces a new perspective on how immune regulation occurs in the gut and opens potential avenues for treating inflammatory bowel diseases by targeting these unconventional cells. The findings underscore the complexity of immune interactions in the gut and challenge previous notions about T cell functions.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-10-tackling-inflammation-gut-role-unconventional.html