Efficient IL-2R signaling differentially affects the stability, function, and composition of the regulatory T-cell pool

Signaling via interleukin-2 receptor (IL-2R) is a requisite for regulatory T (Treg) cell identity and function. However, it is not completely understood to what degree IL-2R signaling is required for Treg cell homeostasis, lineage stability and function in both resting and inflammatory conditions. Here, we characterized a spontaneous mutant mouse strain endowed with a hypomorphic Tyr129His variant of CD25, the alpha-chain of IL-2R, which resulted in diminished receptor expression and reduced IL-2R signaling. Under noninflammatory conditions, Cd25(Y129H) mice harbored substantially lower numbers of peripheral Treg cells with stable Foxp3 expression that prevented the development of spontaneous autoimmune disease. In contrast, Cd25(Y129H) Treg cells failed to efficiently induce immune suppression and lost lineage commitment in a T-cell transfer colitis model, indicating that unimpaired IL-2R signaling is critical for Treg cell function in inflammatory environments. Moreover, single-cell RNA sequencing of Treg cells revealed that impaired IL-2R signaling profoundly affected the balance of central and effector Treg cell subsets. Thus, partial loss of IL-2R signaling differentially interferes with the maintenance, heterogeneity, and suppressive function of the Treg cell pool.

Automated summary

Signaling through IL-2R is crucial for the identity and function of Treg cells, especially in inflammatory environments. Research on mutant mice revealed that impaired IL-2R signaling significantly affects the numbers, function, and subset balance of Treg cells.