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mTOR inhibitors effects on regulatory T cells and on dendritic cells

Giovanni Stallone1, Barbara Infante1, Adelaide Di Lorenzo1

  • 1Nephrology, Dialysis and Tranplantation Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, Viale Luigi Pinto, 1, 71100, Foggia, Italy.

Journal of Translational Medicine
|June 2, 2016
PubMed

Insights

Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors may promote transplant tolerance by modulating regulatory T cells (Tregs) and dendritic cells (DCs). Understanding these mechanisms could reduce rejection and side effects, improving long-term graft survival.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Transplantation immunology
  • Molecular biology

Background:

  • The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a key regulator of cell metabolism and the immune system.
  • mTOR inhibitors show potential for immunosuppression, anti-neoplastic effects, cardio-protection, and promoting graft tolerance.
  • The precise mechanisms by which mTOR inhibition induces a tolerogenic state are not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the effects of mTOR inhibitors on regulatory T cells (Tregs) and dendritic cells (DCs) in the context of transplantation.
  • To elucidate the biological mechanisms underlying mTOR inhibition's role in inducing transplant tolerance.
  • To explore how modulating Tregs and DCs via mTOR inhibition can improve long-term graft outcomes.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review focusing on studies investigating mTOR inhibitors.
  • Analysis of research on the roles of Tregs and DCs in transplant tolerance.
  • Examination of the impact of mTOR inhibition on Treg and DC differentiation, activation, and function.

Main Results:

  • mTOR inhibition influences the differentiation, activation, and function of Tregs and DCs.
  • These modulations are critical for establishing peripheral tolerance in transplantation.
  • Evidence suggests mTOR inhibitors can facilitate an operational graft-tolerogenic state.

Conclusions:

  • mTOR inhibitors hold promise for inducing transplant tolerance by targeting Tregs and DCs.
  • This approach may reduce transplant rejection rates and immunosuppression-related side effects.
  • Further research into mTOR-mediated immunoregulation is crucial for improving long-term graft survival.
Keywords:
Dendritic cellsOperational toleranceTransplantationTregmTOR inhibitors

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