Deciphering the Contribution of gamma delta T Cells to Outcomes in Transplantation

gamma delta Tcells are a subpopulation of lymphocytes expressing heterodimeric T-cell receptors composed of gamma and delta chains. They are morphologically and functionally heterogeneous, innate yet also adaptive in behavior, and exhibit diverse activities spanning immunosurveillance, immunomodulation, and direct cytotoxicity. The specific responses of gamma delta Tcells to allografts are yet to be fully elucidated with evidence of both detrimental and tolerogenic roles in different settings. Here we present an overview of gamma delta T-cell literature, consider ways in which their functional heterogeneity contributes to the outcomes after transplantation, and reflect on methods to harness their beneficial properties.