ROS fine-tunes the function and fate of immune cells

The redox state is essential to the process of cell life, which determines cell fate. As an important signaling molecule of the redox state, reactive oxygen species (ROS) are crucial for the homeostasis of immune cells and participate in the pathological processes of different diseases. We discuss the underlying mechanisms and possible signaling pathways of ROS to fine-tune the proliferation, differentiation, polarization and function of immune cells, including T cells, B cells, neutrophils, macrophages, myeloid-derived inhibitory cells (MDSCs) and dendritic cells (DCs). We further emphasize how excessive ROS lead to programmed immune cell death such as apoptosis, ferroptosis, pyroptosis, NETosis and necroptosis, providing valuable insights for future therapeutic strategies in human diseases.

Automated summary

The redox state is crucial to cell fate, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) as important signaling molecules play a pivotal role in immune cell homeostasis and the pathological processes of various diseases. This review discusses the mechanisms and signaling pathways by which ROS regulate the proliferation, differentiation, polarization, and function of immune cells, including T cells, B cells, neutrophils, macrophages, MDSCs, and DCs. Additionally, we highlight how excessive ROS can lead to programmed immune cell death, such as apoptosis, ferroptosis, pyroptosis, NETosis, and necroptosis, providing valuable insights for future therapeutic strategies in human diseases.