Investigating Vα7.2⁺/CD161^- T Cell and MAIT Cell Profiles Using Flow Cytometry in Healthy Subjects and Subjects with Atopic Dermatitis

This study investigates the roles of mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells and V alpha 7.2(+)/CD161(-) T cells in skin diseases, focusing on atopic dermatitis. MAIT cells, crucial for bridging innate and adaptive immunity, were analyzed alongside V alpha 7.2(+)/CD161(-) T cells in peripheral blood samples from 14 atopic dermatitis patients and 10 healthy controls. Flow cytometry and machine learning algorithms were employed for a comprehensive analysis. The results indicate a significant decrease in MAIT cells and CD69 subsets in atopic dermatitis, coupled with elevated CD38 and polyfunctional MAIT cells producing TNF alpha and Granzyme B (TNF alpha(+)/GzB(+)). V alpha 7.2(+)/CD161(-) T cells in atopic dermatitis exhibited a decrease in CD8 and IFN gamma-producing subsets but an increase in CD38 activated and IL-22-producing subsets. These results highlight the distinctive features of MAIT cells and V alpha 7.2(+)/CD161(-) T cells and their different roles in the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis and provide insights into their potential roles in immune-mediated skin diseases.