Negative regulation of airway responsiveness that is dependent on γδ T cells and independent of αβ T cells

The mechanisms regulating airway function are complex and still poorly understood. In diseases such as asthma, involvement of immune-dependent mechanisms has been suggested in causing changes in airway responsiveness to bronchoconstrictors. We now demonstrate that gamma delta T cells can regulate airway function in an alpha beta T cell-independent manner, identifying them as important cells in pulmonary homeostasis. This function of gamma delta T cells differs from previously described immune-dependent mechanisms and may reflect their interaction with innate systems of host defense.