The Role of T(RM) Cells in the Pathogenesis of Vitiligo—A Review of the Current State-Of-The-Art

Vitiligo is the most common hypopigmentation disease affecting both the skin and mucous membranes. The pathogenesis of this disorder is complex and involves the influence of genetic and environmental factors, oxidative stress, and autoimmune responses. Recent studies have indicated that skin lesions observed in vitiligo tend to recur in the same places where they were found before treatment. This phenomenon is explained by the presence of recently discovered tissue-resident memory T cells (T(RM)), whose primary function is to provide antiviral and antibacterial protection in non-lymphoid tissues. T(RM) cells show the presence of CD49a, CD69, and CD103 markers on their surface, although not all of them express these particles. Due to their ability to produce and secrete perforin, IFN-γ, and granzyme B, T(RM) cells demonstrate a cytotoxic effect on melanocytes, thus inducing depigmented lesions in the course of the vitiligo. It has been proved that the occurrence of T(RM) cells largely depends on IL-15, which promotes the T(RM) function ex vivo. The findings above, as well as their reference to the pathogenesis of autoimmune skin diseases will have a considerable influence on the development of new therapeutic strategies in the near future. This article presents an up-to-date review of information regarding the role of T(RM) cells in the development and progression of vitiligo.