Interferon-γ Orchestrates the Number and Function of Th17 Cells in Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis

Th17 cells are suggested to be pathogenic in mediating experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), but their relation to interferon (IFN)-gamma-producing Th1 cells in vivo is not well understood. We studied the numbers and functions of Th17 cells in CREAE in Biozzi ABH mice, both in peripheral lymphoid organs and in the central nervous system. Th1 and Th17 cells alternated in secondary lymphoid organs and infiltrated into the central nervous system during chronic relapsing experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (CREAE). In the absence of IFN-gamma the numbers and secretion of Th17 cells was enhanced, whereas exogenous administration of IFN-gamma decreased the Th17 cells. In mice with intact IFN-gamma genes, in vivo neutralization of interleukin (IL)-17 protected against EAE development by enhancing the number of IFN-gamma-producing cells. IFN-gamma knockout mice were partially protected by anti-IL-17 antibodies by decreasing cell numbers and production of IL-17. Our findings suggest that, whereas IFN-gamma as such is not necessary for EAE development in the mouse, the lack of suppression of Th17 cells by IFN-gamma enhances the susceptibility to develop EAE. IFN-gamma thus orchestrates the number and function of Th17 cells.