The thioredoxin system: Balancing redox responses in immune cells and tumors. Issue 1 (17th November 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Muri, Jonathan; Kopf, Manfred
• Is Part Of: European journal of immunology. Volume 53:Issue 1(2023)
• Page Start: n/a
• Page End: n/a
• Publication Date: 2022-11-17
• Subjects: cancer -- cellular redox -- immunoregulation -- ROS -- TRX system; Immunology -- Periodicals; 616.079
• DOI: 10.1002/eji.202249948
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0014-2980

Abstract

Abstract: The thioredoxin (TRX) system is an important contributor to cellular redox balance and regulates cell growth, apoptosis, gene expression, and antioxidant defense in nearly all living cells. Oxidative stress, the imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidants, can lead to cell death and tissue damage, thereby contributing to aging and to the development of several diseases, including cardiovascular and allergic diseases, diabetes, and neurological disorders. Targeting its activity is also considered as a promising strategy in the treatment of cancer. Over the past years, immunologists have established an essential function of TRX for activation, proliferation, and responses in T cells, B cells, and macrophages. Upon activation, immune cells rearrange their redox system and activate the TRX pathway to promote proliferation through sustainment of nucleotide biosynthesis, and to support inflammatory responses in myeloid cells by allowing NF‐κB and NLRP3 inflammasome responses. Consequently, targeting the TRX system may therapeutically be exploited to inhibit immune responses in inflammatory conditions. In this review, we summarize recent insights revealing key roles of the TRX pathway in immune cells in health and disease, and lessons learnt for cancer therapy. Abstract : The thioredoxin (TRX) system is a critical contributor to cellular redox homeostasis in all living cells. Here, we review the key roles of TRX for activation, proliferation, and responses in T cells, B cells, and myeloid cells. Further, we conceptualize how this knowledge may be therapeutically exploited for cancer treatment.