Negative regulation of airway responsiveness that is dependent on gamma delta T cells and independent of alpha beta T cells

The mechanisms regulating airway function are complex and still poorly unde rstood. In diseases such as asthma, involvement of immune-dependent mechani sms has been suggested in causing changes in airway responsiveness to bronc hoconstrictors. We now demonstrate that gamma delta T cells can regulate ai rway function in an alpha beta T cell-independent manner, identifying them as important cells in pulmonary homeostasis. This function of gamma delta T cells differs from previously described immune-dependent mechanisms and ma y reflect their interaction with innate systems of host defense.