The role of gamma/delta T cells in immunity to infection and regulation of inflammation.

The role of gamma/delta T cells in immunity to bacterial infection and control of inflammation is discussed. Special emphasis is placed on the use of murine models in which various aspects of immune function can be monitored in the absence of gamma/delta T cells. Issues discussed include the response to and control of cytokine production by gamma/delta T cells. Especially relevant is the apparent paradox that gamma/delta T cells play both pro-inflammatory and antiinflammatory roles in response to infection.