IL-17 is an important pro-inflammatory cytokine, which has attracted widespread attention due to its crucial roles in inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Studies have shown that in addition to Th17 cells, γδT17 cells are also vital sources of IL-17. γδT17 cells are intimately involved in multiple immune responses and closely associated with the occurrence and development of diverse diseases, such as infectious diseases, autoimmune diseases and tumors. This article summarizes the research advances in the mechanism of activation of γδT17 cells and elucidates the mechanism of the differentiation and activation of γδT17 cells, which is expected to provide new ideas for the treatment of the associated diseases.