Regulatory T Cells and Inflammatory Mediators in Autoimmune Disease

Regulatory T cells (Tregs) play a critical role in regulating tissue inflammation. Reduced Treg numbers and/or suppressive function contribute to autoimmune disease. Tregs can adopt the transcriptional programming of T helper (Th) type-1/2/17 cells to optimally suppress these subsets. Under specific conditions, these Th-like Tregs lose suppressive capacity and release proinflammatory cytokines to promote inflammation. This Treg plasticity depends on inflammatory mediators in the local environment. In this study, we review how cytokines impact Treg function and may contribute to autoimmune disease. A comprehensive understanding of Th-like Tregs may elucidate novel and more focused therapeutic approaches.

Automated summary

Regulatory T cells play a critical role in regulating tissue inflammation, and loss of their suppressive capacity may contribute to autoimmune disease. Under specific conditions, these cells can lose their ability to suppress and release proinflammatory cytokines, promoting inflammation. The impact of cytokines on Treg function may have implications for autoimmune disease.