The interaction network between group 3 innate lymphoid cells and other cells

Abstract

Group 3 innate lymphoid cells (ILC3s) have emerged as significant regulators of tissue homeostasis, immunity and inflammation through various effector molecules in response to signals within the tissue microenvironment. Multiple signals derived from the tissue microenvironment have been illustrated in recent years, which could either activate or suppress the activity of ILC3s. ILC3s, in turn, could also influence many other cells through their effector molecules, such as interleukin (IL)-22, IL-17 and lymphotoxins, indicating that ILC3s act as an important hub in the complex network of cell interactions. In this review, we discuss our current appreciation of the functional crosstalk between ILC3s and myeloid cells, T and B cells, epithelial cells or other types of cells, thus highlighting the emerging importance of communication between these cells for the prevention or induction of relevant diseases and providing insights for future directions of investigation and therapeutic interventions.