Research progress in innate lymphoid cells

The newly identified innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) are a member of innate lymphocytes which functionally resemble adaptive lymphocytes. ILCs arise from a common lymphoid progenitor (CLP) and locate in multiple tissues. Three distinct groups of ILCs have been identified on the basis of transcription factors and expression of effector cytokines and termed ILC1s, ILC2s and ILC3s. These heterogeneous subsets play different roles in different tissues. They are involved in tissue remodeling, healing, anti-parasitic and anti-bacterial infections, tumor development, metabolic stability and immune tolerance to symbiotic microorganisms. Here we focused on the most recent data concerning the classification, development and differentiation of ILCs as well as the new functions of ILCs.\r\n\r\n\r\nKey words: \r\nInnate lymphoid cell; Classification; Development and differentiation; Function