Follicular helper T cells: emerging roles in lymphomagenesis

J Leukoc Biol. 2024 Jun 28;116(1):54-63. doi: 10.1093/jleuko/qiad140.

Abstract

Follicular helper T cells are a subset of CD4+ T cells that are fundamental to forming germinal centers, which are the primary sites of antibody affinity maturation and the proliferation of activated B cells. Follicular helper T cells have been extensively studied over the past 10 years, especially regarding their roles in cancer genesis. This review describes the characteristics of normal follicular helper T cells and focuses on the emerging link between follicular helper T cells and lymphomagenesis. Advances in lymphoma genetics have substantially expanded our understanding of the role of follicular helper T cells in lymphomagenesis. Moreover, we detail a range of agents and new therapies, with a major focus on chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy; these novel approaches may offer new treatment opportunities for patients with lymphomas.

Keywords: B cell; follicular helper T cell; geminal center; lymphomagenesis; non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Germinal Center / immunology
  • Humans
  • Lymphoma* / immunology
  • Lymphoma* / pathology
  • Lymphoma* / therapy
  • T Follicular Helper Cells* / immunology
  • T-Lymphocytes, Helper-Inducer / immunology