The role of regulatory T cells in nervous system pathologies. Issue 6 (10th May 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Duffy, Samuel S.; Keating, Brooke A.; Perera, Chamini J.; Moalem‐Taylor, Gila
• Is Part Of: Journal of neuroscience research. Volume 96:Issue 6(2018)
• Page Start: 951
• Page End: 968
• Publication Date: 2017-05-10
• Subjects: neuroimmunology -- nervous system -- neuroinflammation -- T cells; Neurobiology -- Periodicals; 612
• DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24073
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0360-4012

Abstract

Abstract: Regulatory T (Treg) cells are a special subpopulation of immunosuppressive T cells that are essential for sustaining immune homeostasis. They maintain self‐tolerance, inhibit autoimmunity, and act as critical negative regulators of inflammation in various pathological states including autoimmunity, injury, and degeneration of the nervous system. Treg cells are known to convey both beneficial and detrimental influences in certain disease contexts, and accumulating research suggests that their action may be altered in a range of peripheral and central nervous system pathologies. In this review, we discuss emerging evidence for the dichotomous role of Treg cells in various neurological pathologies including multiple sclerosis, Guillain‐Barré syndrome, neuropathic pain, traumatic central nervous system injury, stroke, and neurodegenerative diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease. We are in the early stages of uncovering the role of Treg cells in these conditions, and a better understanding of the ways in which these cells operate in the nervous system will enable us to develop novel therapeutic interventions. Abstract : Studies have demonstrated disease‐dependant roles for regulatory T cells in nervous system pathologies with beneficial, deleterious or unclear roles. Whilst regulatory T cells are essential for sustaining self‐tolerance and inhibiting harmful immune responses, they may also suppress effector T cell responses that operate to prevent continuous neurodegeneration.