Autoimmune T cell responses directed against central nervous system (CNS) antigens play a crucial role in diseases such as multiple sclerosis, neuromyelitis optica, and acute disseminated encephalomyelitis. These responses are mediated by distinct lineages of CD4+ T cells, defined by the production of either interferon-γ (IFNγ) or interleukin-17 (IL-17), and can also be mediated by myelin-specific CD8+ T cells. The activity of these T cell subsets within the CNS influences the pathology and clinical course of disease. Recent studies have focused on the activation, infiltration, antigen specificity, pathogenicity, and regulation of these T cell subsets, providing insights into the complex mechanisms underlying CNS autoimmunity. CD4+ T cells, particularly those producing IL-17, are key effector cells in CNS autoimmunity, but the role of CD8+ T cells and the mechanisms by which they contribute to disease remain less understood. The balance between different T cell subsets and their cytokine production may determine the localization and severity of inflammatory lesions within the CNS. Understanding these mechanisms is essential for developing effective therapeutic strategies for autoimmune diseases in the CNS.Autoimmune T cell responses directed against central nervous system (CNS) antigens play a crucial role in diseases such as multiple sclerosis, neuromyelitis optica, and acute disseminated encephalomyelitis. These responses are mediated by distinct lineages of CD4+ T cells, defined by the production of either interferon-γ (IFNγ) or interleukin-17 (IL-17), and can also be mediated by myelin-specific CD8+ T cells. The activity of these T cell subsets within the CNS influences the pathology and clinical course of disease. Recent studies have focused on the activation, infiltration, antigen specificity, pathogenicity, and regulation of these T cell subsets, providing insights into the complex mechanisms underlying CNS autoimmunity. CD4+ T cells, particularly those producing IL-17, are key effector cells in CNS autoimmunity, but the role of CD8+ T cells and the mechanisms by which they contribute to disease remain less understood. The balance between different T cell subsets and their cytokine production may determine the localization and severity of inflammatory lesions within the CNS. Understanding these mechanisms is essential for developing effective therapeutic strategies for autoimmune diseases in the CNS.