FOXP3+ regulatory T cells in the human immune system

Nat Rev Immunol. 2010 Jul;10(7):490-500. doi: 10.1038/nri2785. Epub 2010 Jun 18.

Abstract

Forkhead box P3 (FOXP3)(+) regulatory T (T(Reg)) cells are potent mediators of dominant self tolerance in the periphery. But confusion as to the identity, stability and suppressive function of human T(Reg) cells has, to date, impeded the general therapeutic use of these cells. Recent studies have suggested that human T(Reg) cells are functionally and phenotypically diverse. Here we discuss recent findings regarding human T(Reg) cells, including the ontogeny and development of T(Reg) cell subsets that have naive or memory phenotypes, the unique mechanisms of suppression mediated by T(Reg) cell subsets and factors that regulate T(Reg) cell lineage commitment. We discuss future studies that are needed for the successful therapeutic use of human T(Reg) cells.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Differentiation
  • Forkhead Transcription Factors / immunology*
  • Forkhead Transcription Factors / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Immunologic Memory
  • Immunotherapy
  • Leukocyte Common Antigens / metabolism
  • Mice
  • Models, Immunological
  • Phenotype
  • Self Tolerance
  • T-Lymphocyte Subsets / cytology
  • T-Lymphocyte Subsets / immunology
  • T-Lymphocyte Subsets / metabolism
  • T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory / cytology
  • T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory / immunology*
  • T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory / metabolism

Substances

  • FOXP3 protein, human
  • Forkhead Transcription Factors
  • Foxp3 protein, mouse
  • Leukocyte Common Antigens