A Novel Role of IL-17+ Cell Subsets in Ross River Virus-Induced Arthritic Disease

The study investigated the role of IL-17+ cell subsets in Ross River virus (RRV)-induced joint inflammation using a mouse model. It identified IL-17A+ and IL-17F+ cell subsets produced by CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in the joints of infected mice, with elevated IL-17A expression and increased pro-inflammatory cytokines. Neutralizing IL-17A with a monoclonal antibody reduced disease severity but did not affect cell subsets or viral load. Targeting the IL-17A/F heterodimer also reduced disease severity, suggesting both isoforms contribute to pathogenesis. The findings indicated that IL-17+ T cell subsets play a role in joint inflammation in RRV infection, and targeting IL-17 could be a promising therapeutic approach for alphaviral infections.