Cytokine Dynamics of γδ T Cells: A Double Edged Sword in Osteoclastogenesis.,

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Bone remodelling is necessary to maintain mineral homeostasis and structural integrity of bone. It is a continuous and highly coordinated process, which is essentially carried out by osteoblasts (bone forming cells) and osteoclasts (bone resorbing cells) through release of cytokines or soluble factors. Number of reports suggests that, tumor cells, immune cells and bone cells share cytokines, chemokines and signalling molecules. Conventional T cells (αβ T cells) are known to enhance osteoclast generation and function through release of proosteoclastogenic factors like IL17 and RANKL. Although the presence of γδ T cells in bone microenvironment has been reported, their role in bone biology is not well understood. Studies from our lab suggest that, depending on the activation status and cytokine dynamics, γδ T cells can function in a pro or anti-osteoclastogenic manner. Activated γδ T cells secrete higher levels of IFNγ (anti-osteoclastogenic cytokine) and inhibit the process of osteoclastogenesis, while non-activated γδ T cells produce increased levels of IL6 (anti-osteoclastogenic cytokine) and were found to enhance osteoclast generation and function. Aminobisphosphonate Zoledronate has potent antiresorptive activity and is used for the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis and skeletal malignancies associated with metastatic cancer. Zoledronate is also known be a potent activator of γδ T cells. Aminobisphosphonates are embedded in bone due to their high affinity for calcium and get released in the bone microenvironment by resorbing osteoclasts. These aminobisophsopnates activate γδ T cells, which have antitumor and antiresorptive activity. The present review highlights the new role played by aminobisphosphonates in cancer patients through activation of effector functions of γδ T cells and other immune cells, which extends beyond their well-defined antiresorptive function.