The Role of the CCL20-CCR6 Pathway in Mediating Interactions Between Mucosal-Associated Invariant T Cells and M2 Macrophages Contributing to Immune Dysregulation in Liver Cirrhosis

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Cirrhosis is characterized by progressive hepatic fibrosis and immune dysregulation, with mechanisms of immune cell interactions poorly understood.
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The study identified eight immune genes associated with cirrhosis, with CCL20 enriched in MAIT cells linked to their activation and exhaustion.
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The CCL20-CCR6 axis mediates interactions between MAIT cells and M2 macrophages, forming a positive feedback loop in the cirrhotic microenvironment.
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Immunofluorescence confirmed the colocalization of CCL20, MAIT cells, and M2 macrophages in cirrhotic tissues, supporting their role in immune dysregulation.
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Findings suggest the CCL20-CCR6 axis as a key regulator of immune dysregulation and fibrotic progression in liver cirrhosis, with potential as a biomarker.

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