The article reviews the different subsets of T helper (Th) cells and their signature cytokines, focusing on their roles in autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. It highlights the complexity of Th cell functions, where cytokines like IFN-γ, IL-4, IL-17, IL-22, IL-9, and TGF-β can have both pathogenic and protective effects. For instance, IFN-γ, produced by Th1 and Th17 cells, is often associated with autoimmune diseases but can also have anti-inflammatory properties. Similarly, IL-4, produced by Th2 cells, can promote both autoimmune and protective immune responses. The article discusses the plasticity of Th cell subsets, where cells can switch between different cytokine profiles, and the challenges in defining pathogenic Th cell subsets solely based on cytokine profiles. It concludes by emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to targeting cytokines in therapy, considering the dual roles of cytokines and the plasticity of Th cell subsets.The article reviews the different subsets of T helper (Th) cells and their signature cytokines, focusing on their roles in autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. It highlights the complexity of Th cell functions, where cytokines like IFN-γ, IL-4, IL-17, IL-22, IL-9, and TGF-β can have both pathogenic and protective effects. For instance, IFN-γ, produced by Th1 and Th17 cells, is often associated with autoimmune diseases but can also have anti-inflammatory properties. Similarly, IL-4, produced by Th2 cells, can promote both autoimmune and protective immune responses. The article discusses the plasticity of Th cell subsets, where cells can switch between different cytokine profiles, and the challenges in defining pathogenic Th cell subsets solely based on cytokine profiles. It concludes by emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to targeting cytokines in therapy, considering the dual roles of cytokines and the plasticity of Th cell subsets.