Single-cell transcriptomics identifies pathogenic T-helper 17.1 cells and pro-inflammatory monocytes in immune checkpoint inhibitor-related pneumonitis

Abstract

Using single-cell transcriptomics, we identified accumulation of pathogenic T-helper 17.1 cells in ICI-pneumonitis bronchoalveolar lavage fluid-a phenotype explaining previous divergent findings on T-helper 1 versus T-helper 17 involvement in ICI-pneumonitis-,putatively engaging in detrimental crosstalk with pro-inflammatory 'M1-like' monocytes. This finding yields several novel potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of ICI-pneumonitis. Most notably repurposing anti-IL-23 merits further research as a potential efficacious and safe treatment for ICI-pneumonitis.