Human CD4+CD25+CD127lowFOXP3+ regulatory T lymphocytes and CD4+CD25-FOXP3- conventional T lymphocytes: a differential transcriptome profile

CD4(+)CD25(+) FOXP3(+) regulatory T cells (Tregs) represent a subpopulation of CD4(+) T cells central for the suppression of physiological and pathological immune reactions. Although distinct cell surface antigens are expressed in regulatory T cells, those components are also present on the surface of activated CD4(+)CD25(-) FOXP3(-)T cells, thus making the discrimination between Tregs and conventional CD4(+) T difficult and isolation of Tregs complex. Yet, the molecular components driving Tregs' function are still not fully characterized. Aiming at unraveling molecular components specifically marking Tregs, and upon using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) followed by bioinformatics analysis, we identified, in this study, differential transcriptional profiles, in peripheral blood CD4 + CD25 + CD127(low) FOXP3+ Tregs versus CD4 + CD25-FOXP3- conventional T cells, for set of genes with distinct immunological roles. In conclusion, this study identifies some novel genes that appeared to be differentially transcribed in CD4+ Tregs versus conventional T cells. The identified genes could serve as novel molecular targets relevant to Tregs' function and isolation.

Automated summary

CD4(+)CD25(+) FOXP3(+) regulatory T cells are important in suppressing immune reactions, but difficult to distinguish from conventional CD4(+) T cells. This study identifies differentially transcribed genes between Tregs and conventional T cells using qRT-PCR and bioinformatics analysis, providing new molecular targets for understanding Tregs' function and isolation.