Basic and clinical immunology – 3036. Investigation of peripheral follicular helper T-cells in primary Sjögren's syndrome

Background The exact mechanisms behind the immune disturbances in primary Sjögren ́s syndrome (pSS) are still not known in details, but evidence suggests that abnormal Tand B-cell activation plays a critical role in the disease development. Recent studies emphasized the important role of follicular helper T (TFH) cells, which contribute to B-cell proliferation and differentiation, as well as antibody production. The aim of this study was to investigate the possible role of TFH cells in the pathogenesis of pSS, by analyzing a wide spectrum of immune-competent cells and serological markers with a special emphasis on clinical symptoms of the disease.