Characterization of IL-22 and IL-17 Expressing Leukocytes in the Cervix

Problem Identification of the types of cells that produce IL‐17 and IL‐22 in the genital tract can clarify the roles that these cytokines play in responses to pathogens. Method of study We isolated and stimulated cells from cervical tissue to identify and characterize cytokine‐producing cells. Results Upon stimulation of CD3+ CD4+ endocervical cells, 1.6, 3.4, and 1.5% were induced to produce IL‐22, IL‐17, and both cytokines, respectively. Stimulation of CD3+ CD4+ ectocervical cells resulted in 3.3% IL‐22+, 5.5% IL‐17+ and 2.6% IL‐22+ IL17+ cells. CD45+ CD3− cells had relatively high endogenous levels of cytokine expression that did not increase upon stimulation. Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) made up 5.7–8% of CD45+ cervical cells and stimulation caused increases in IL‐17 and IL‐22. Conclusion These studies show that the majority of the CD45+ leukocytes that can be induced to produce IL‐22 and IL‐17 in cervix are CD3+ CD4+, but ILCs are also present and can make both cytokines.