Regulatory T cells and intestinal homeostasis

Coombes, J. L., Robinson, N. J., Maloy, K. J. , Uhlig, H. H. and Powrie, F. (2005) Regulatory T cells and intestinal homeostasis. Immunological Reviews, 204(1), pp. 184-194. (doi: 10.1111/j.0105-2896.2005.00250.x) (PMID:15790359)

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Abstract

Murine models of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are useful tools for the study of the pathogenesis and regulation of intestinal inflammation. Colitis can be induced in immune-deficient mice following transfer of populations of T cells or following infection with Helicobacter hepaticus and other intestinal pathogens. In these situations, colitis occurs as a result of the absence of a specialized population of regulatory cells, as transfer of CD4(+)CD25(+) T cells prevents disease. Importantly, from a clinical perspective, CD4(+)CD25(+) T cells can also reverse an established colitis. CD4(+)CD25(+) T cells proliferate both in the secondary lymphoid organs and at the site of inflammation, suggesting that regulation occurs both locally and systemically. CD4(+)CD25(+) T cells are not only capable of regulating other T cells but are also capable of suppressing components of the innate immune system. Control of colitis is dependent on the presence of the immunosuppressive cytokines interleukin-10 and transforming growth factor-beta, although their roles are divergent and complex. Regulatory T cells represent one of the host's mechanisms to prevent immune pathology during chronic immune stimulation. Enhancement of regulatory T-cell activity may be useful to control autoreactive T-cell responses and inhibit harmful inflammatory diseases such as asthma and IBD.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Maloy, Professor Kevin
Authors: Coombes, J. L., Robinson, N. J., Maloy, K. J., Uhlig, H. H., and Powrie, F.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Infection & Immunity
Journal Name:Immunological Reviews
Publisher:Wiley
ISSN:0105-2896
ISSN (Online):1600-065X
Published Online:16 March 2005

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