γδ T cells, tea and cancer

Abstract

Environmental factors play an important role in the development of cancer. Tea, one of the most popular beverages in the world, has shown to have anti-cancer effects as well as have protective effects against cancer development. Recent studies have shown that components present in tea could activate the immune system, particularly γδ T cells, which is an important component of both innate and adaptive immune system. As a first line of defense against tumors, the activation of immune system is important to provide necessary preventive measures against tumor. In this chapter, we focus on the mechanism of γδ T cell-mediated recognition of antigens, and delineate the mechanisms, by which tea product can activate γδ T cells to facilitate cancer prevention activities.