regulatory T cell

Regulatory T cells (Treg), formerly known as suppressor T cells (Ts), are a subpopulation of T cells which modulate the immune system, maintain tolerance to self-antigens, and abrogate autoimmune disease. Mouse models have suggested that modulation of Tregs can treat autoimmune disease and cancer, and facilitate organ transplantation.

Regulatory T cells actively suppress activation of the immune system and prevent pathological self-reactivity, i.e. autoimmune disease. The critical role regulatory T cells play within the immune system is evidenced by the severe autoimmune syndrome that results from a genetic deficiency in regulatory T cells.

The molecular mechanism by which regulatory T cells exert their suppressor or regulatory activity has not been definitively characterized and is the subject of intense research. In vitro experiments have given mixed results regarding the requirement of cell-to-cell contact with the cell being suppressed. The immunosuppressive cytokines TGF-beta and Interleukin 10 (IL-10) have also been implicated in regulatory T cell function.