Immunology is a really complicated subject (not to mention that our teachers for immuno aren't the best). Just glancing over a page from the book in front of me, I see paragraphs talking about cytokine secretion influencing the type-commitment of T helper cells. If they have a TH1 profile, they will secrete Interferon-gamma, Interleukin-2, and Tumor Necrosis Factor, which fight bacteria and viruses. If they are TH2, they will secrete Interleukin 4, 5, or 10, which fight against parasitic infection or infections in mucosal areas. The T helper cells receive signals from their surroundings in order to decide which cytokine profile to secrete. These signals are generally cytokines released from other immune cells such as macrophages. The interesting thing is that T helper cells that are already committed to a certain profile can influence others to commit to their profile as well...Now here's the analogy put forth in "How the Immune System Works" (a great book that, as you will see, makes things much easier to relate to on a "normal person" level.
"Committed Th (T helper) cells can also influence the cytokine profile produced by other Th cells in the neighborhood. In this sense, helper T cells are like 'evangelists' who try to 'convert' other Th cells to their 'religion.'"
Oh, man...but, it makes it make SO much more sense...
Ok, off to play volleyball. Have a great day everyone!
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