• Investigating the Development of Unconventional T Cells in the Human Thymus
  • Amir Mashayekh,1,*
    1. Shiraz University of Medical sciences, Faculty of Paramedicine


  • Introduction: The human thymus plays a central role in the development of T cells, which are critical for adaptive immunity. Traditionally, the thymus is understood to generate conventional αβ T cells that undergo selection processes to ensure immune self-tolerance and pathogen defense. However, recent studies have highlighted a distinct subset of unconventional T cells, including γδ T cells, invariant Natural Killer T (iNKT) cells, and Mucosal-Associated Invariant T (MAIT) cells, which also develop within the thymus. These cells possess unique features that distinguish them from conventional T cells, such as their innate-like recognition of microbial or self-antigens and their ability to respond rapidly to infection.
  • Methods: This review aims to explore the mechanisms underlying the development of these unconventional T cells in the human thymus, focusing on the thymic microenvironment, gene expression profiles, and the roles of specific thymic stromal cells.
  • Results: Additionally, this review delves into how the development of unconventional T cells contributes to immune homeostasis and their potential role in autoimmunity, cancer, and infectious diseases.
  • Conclusion: By synthesizing the latest findings, this article will highlight gaps in our understanding and propose future directions for research in this evolving area of immunology.
  • Keywords: Unconventional T Cells, Human Thymus, T Cell Development, Innate-like Lymphocytes, Thymic Selection