The critical contribution of TGF-beta to the induction of Foxp3 expression and regulatory T cell function.
Stimulation of mouse CD4+ T cells in the presence of TGF-beta results in the expression of Foxp3 and induction of Treg function. Stimulation of human CD4+ T cells under similar conditions results in the expression of Foxp3, but the cells lack regulatory cell function. TGF-beta expressed on the surface of Treg also induces Foxp3 expression and Treg function in responder cells. Both of these mechanisms may play a role in vivo in the induction of antigen-specific extra-thymic Treg.
Shevach
Ethan M
EM
Laboratory of Immunology, NIAID, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA. EShevach@niaid.nih.gov
Tran
Dat Q
DQ
Davidson
Todd S
TS
Andersson
John
J
D000818:Animals; D051858:Forkhead Transcription Factors / Q000096:biosynthesis*; D006801:Humans; D051379:Mice; D018448:Models, Immunological; D011948:Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell / Q000276:immunology; D050378:T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory / Q000276:immunology* / Q000378:metabolism; D016212:Transforming Growth Factor beta / Q000276:immunology*
D051858:Forkhead Transcription Factors; D011948:Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell; D016212:Transforming Growth Factor beta