Tregs and rheumatoid arthritis

Acta Reumatol Port. 2008 Jan-Mar;33(1):17-33.

Abstract

Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are a subset of T cells which are involved in peripheral immune tolerance. Their role in autoimmune disease which occurs through a breakdown of tolerance is of particular interest in trying to ascertain the mechanism(s) of disease progression. It is hoped that by understanding the role of Tregs in autoimmunity a reliable therapy may be developed to aid in both the treatment and potentially cure of disease. This review will focus on the naturally-occurring CD4+ CD25+ regulatory T cell subset and their possible involvement in rheumatoid arthritis.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Arthritis, Rheumatoid / drug therapy
  • Arthritis, Rheumatoid / immunology*
  • CD4 Antigens
  • Humans
  • Interleukin-2 Receptor alpha Subunit
  • T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory / immunology*
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha / antagonists & inhibitors

Substances

  • CD4 Antigens
  • Interleukin-2 Receptor alpha Subunit
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha