title: Regulatory T Cells in Autoimmune Diabetes: Mechanisms of Action and Translational Potential.
abstract: Since the discovery of specialized T cells with regulatory function, harnessing the power of these cells to ameliorate autoimmunity has been a major goal. Here we collate the evidence that regulatory T cells (Treg) can inhibit Type 1 diabetes in animal models and humans. We discuss the anatomical sites and molecular mechanisms of Treg suppressive function in the Type 1 diabetes setting, citing evidence that Treg can function in both the pancreatic lymph nodes and within the pancreatic lesion. Involvement of the CTLA-4 pathway, as well as TGF-β and IL-2 deprivation will be considered. Finally, we summarize current efforts to manipulate Treg therapeutically in individuals with Type 1 diabetes. The translation of this research area from bench to bedside is still in its infancy, but the remarkable therapeutic potential of successfully manipulating Treg populations is clear to see.
authors.affiliation: Institute of Immunity & Transplantation, Division of Infection & Immunity, University College London, London, United Kingdom. Electronic address: vitalijs.ovcinnikovs.13@ucl.ac.uk.
authors.forename: Vitalijs
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Ovcinnikovs
authors.affiliation: Institute of Immunity & Transplantation, Division of Infection & Immunity, University College London, London, United Kingdom.
authors.forename: Lucy S K
authors.initials: LS
authors.lastname: Walker
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D003922:Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1 / Q000276:immunology* / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D007165:Immunosuppression Therapy; D018448:Models, Immunological; D050378:T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory / Q000276:immunology*; D057170:Translational Research, Biomedical
keywords: CTLA-4; IL-2; Immune regulation; Immunotherapy; Treg; Type 1 diabetes