A diversified role for gamma delta T cells in vector-borne diseases

Vector-borne diseases have high morbidity and mortality and are major health threats worldwide. gamma delta T cells represent a small but essential subpopulation of T cells. They reside in most human tissues and exert important functions in both natural and adaptive immune responses. Emerging evidence have shown that the activation and expansion of gamma delta T cells invoked by pathogens play a diversified role in the regulation of host-pathogen interactions and disease progression. A better understanding of such a role for gamma delta T cells may contribute significantly to developing novel preventative and therapeutic strategies. Herein, we summarize recent exciting findings in the field, with a focus on the role of gamma delta T cells in the infection of vector-borne pathogens.