Expression of Th17-related genes in PHA/IL-2-activated human T cells by Fas signaling via caspase-1- and Stat3-dependent pathway

T helper 17 (Th17) cells, which produce interleukin 17 (IL-17), are involved in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases and inflammatory conditions. Th17 cells have been detected in many Fas ligand-positive tumors. This study investigates the expression of Th17-related genes in PHA/IL-2-activated human T cells upon Fas ligation. Activated T cells transiently express RORγt, IL-17A, and IL-17F. A subsequent Fas receptor stimulation or contact with FasL-expressing glioma cells significantly prolongs the induction of RORγt and Th17-related cytokines. Treatments with inhibitors of caspase-1 and Stat3 reduce the Fas-signal-associated induction of RORγt, IL-17A, and IL-17F, as well as the phosphorylation of Stat3. Although the ligation of Fas results in caspase-8 cleavage and ERK1/2 phosphorylation, inhibitors for caspase-8 and MEK have no effect on the expressions of RORγt, IL-17A, and IL-17F. The results suggest that the Fas signal favors the Th17-phenotypic features of human T cells through the caspase-1/Stat3 signaling pathway.