CXCL9 associates with experimental neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder following adoptive transfer of Tfh and Th17 cells

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The study explores the role of AQP4-specific Tfh and Th17 cells in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) using murine models.
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Recipient mice receiving AQP4-reactive Tfh or Th17 cells exhibited progressive hind-limb weakness, with Th17 cells causing more severe symptoms.
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Histopathological analysis revealed significant immune cell infiltration and demyelination in the central nervous system of affected mice.
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CXCL9 was identified as a highly upregulated chemokine in the spinal cord, suggesting its role in CNS inflammation during NMOSD.
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The findings indicate that AQP4-specific Tfh and Th17 cells contribute to NMOSD pathology, highlighting CXCL9's potential as a therapeutic target.

Frontiers In Immunology

by Liang Wang, Lei Zhou, Wenjuan Huang, Jingzi ZhangBao, Hongmei Tan, Yuxin Fan, Chuanzhen Lu, Jian Yu, Min Wang, Jiahong Lu, Chongbo Zhao, Jun Wang, Chao Quan
May 28, 2026

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