Fig. 3.

Scheme showing interaction(s) among T and B cells and macrophages and their relationship to various diseases. Possible role of PUFAs and their metabolites in these events is also depicted. Antigen-presenting cells (APCs) present antigen on their Class II MHC molecules (MHC2). Helper T cells recognize these, with the help of their expression of CD4 co-receptor (CD4+). The activated helper T cell release cytokines and other stimulatory signals that stimulate the activity of macrophages, killer T cells and B cells. The activated T cells, B cells and macrophages produce eicosanoids, ROS, NO and cytokines that eliminate the invading microorganisms, intracellular pathogens and/or cause autoimmune diseases depending on the regulation or inappropriate function of T suppressor cells. Decreased production of LXA4/resolvins/protectins/maresins and abnormal EFA metabolism leads to alterations in the production of ROS, IL-17, IL-6, TNF-α and antibodies resulting in development of HTN and DM. This diagram is an abridged form of the actual interactions that are much more complex