Gene expression profile of joint-infiltrating CD4+ T cells from SKG mice

Excessive activation of IL-17-producing T helper (Th17) cells can lead to autoimmune tissue inflammation. However, the mechanisms by which Th17 cells enhance their pathogenicity within target tissues remain unclear. Using SKG mice, a model of Th17 cell-dependent autoimmune arthritis, this study delineate the heterogeneity and pathogenic potential of arthritogenic Th17 cells, highlighting secondary autoimmune TCR signaling as a critical regulatory determinant of their developmental trajectories. The data here are single-cell RNA sequencing of joint-infiltrated CD4+ T cells isolated from inflamed joints of SKG mice. Joint Th17 cells were revealed to be consist of three phenotypically distinct subpopulations, ranging from a Tcf1+ stem-like state to a Egr2+ highly pathogenic state.