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CD4+CD25+ regulatory T lymphocytes in malignant pleural effusion
Yi-Qiang Chen1, Huan-Zhong Shi, Xue-Jun Qin
1Institute of Respiratory Diseases, First Affiliated Hospital, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, Guangxi, P. R. China. hzshi@vip.tom.com
American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine
|September 10, 2005
Summary
Regulatory T cells (CD4(+)CD25(+)) are elevated in malignant pleural effusion and suppress T-cell proliferation. These cells express Foxp3 and CTLA-4, indicating their role in immune suppression in lung cancer patients.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Oncology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- CD4(+)CD25(+) regulatory T lymphocytes are crucial for immune tolerance.
- Their role in the tumor microenvironment, specifically in malignant pleural effusion, is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and function of CD4(+)CD25(+) regulatory T lymphocytes in malignant pleural effusion.
- To analyze their role in lung cancer-associated immune suppression.
Main Methods:
- Flow cytometry was used to quantify CD4(+)CD25(+) T cells in pleural effusion and peripheral blood.
- Expression of Foxp3 and CTLA-4 was assessed.
- In vitro co-culture assays examined the suppressive function of isolated CD4(+)CD25(+) T cells.
Main Results:
- Malignant pleural effusions showed increased CD4(+)CD25(+) T cells compared to pleural lavage in non-effusion lung cancer patients.
- These cells exhibited high expression of Foxp3 and CTLA-4.
- CD4(+)CD25(+) T cells potently inhibited CD4(+)CD25(-) T cell proliferation, an effect partially reversed by anti-CTLA-4 antibodies.
Conclusions:
- Elevated CD4(+)CD25(+) T cells in malignant pleural effusion express Foxp3 and suppress T-cell proliferation.
- CTLA-4 is implicated in the suppressive activity of these regulatory T cells within the pleural effusion microenvironment.