Abstract:

T helper 17 cells (Th17) are a subset of T helper cells producing interleukin 17 (IL-17). They are considered developmentally distinct from Th1 and Th2 cells and excessive amounts of the cell are thought to play a key role in autoimmune disease. Accumulating evidence suggests that Th17 cells and cytokines participate in human and experimental renal disease. This article reviews the progress on the role of Th17 cells and cytokines in the pathogenesis of kidney diseases．