Development and maintenance of regulatory T cells

Immunity. 2013 Mar 21;38(3):414-23. doi: 10.1016/j.immuni.2013.03.002.

Abstract

Regulatory T (Treg) cells are a developmentally and functionally distinct T cell subpopulation that is engaged in sustaining immunological self-tolerance and homeostasis. The transcription factor Foxp3 plays a key role in Treg cell development and function. However, expression of Foxp3 alone is not sufficient for conferring and maintaining Treg cell function and phenotype. Complementing the insufficiency, Treg-cell-specific epigenetic changes are also critical in the process of Treg cell specification, in regulating its potential plasticity, and hence in establishing a stable lineage. Understanding how epigenetic alterations and Foxp3 expression coordinately control Treg-cell-specific gene regulation will enable better control of immune responses by targeting the generation and maintenance of Treg cells.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Epigenesis, Genetic*
  • Epigenomics*
  • Forkhead Transcription Factors / genetics*
  • Forkhead Transcription Factors / immunology
  • Homeostasis / genetics
  • Homeostasis / immunology
  • Humans
  • Models, Genetic
  • Models, Immunological
  • Self Tolerance / genetics
  • Self Tolerance / immunology
  • T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory / immunology
  • T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory / metabolism*

Substances

  • FOXP3 protein, human
  • Forkhead Transcription Factors