Physiological strength electric fields modulate human T cell activation and polarisation

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Cell Biology
• Biophysics

Background:

• T cell activation and polarization are crucial for immune responses.
• Previous research focused on cellular and chemical mediators.
• Electric fields (EFs) are present at sites of epithelial disruption where T cells are found.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the role of physiological-strength electric fields (EFs) as physical drivers of T cell activation and polarization.
• To explore the impact of EFs on human primary T cell behavior and function.

Main Methods:

• Live-cell imaging was used to observe human primary T cell migration in response to low-strength EFs (50/150 mV/mm).
• T cell activation was assessed by measuring IL-2 secretion and proliferation after stimulation with antigen-presenting cells (APCs) or anti-CD3/CD28 antibodies.
• Changes in T cell polarization and the expression of key lineage markers (RORγt, IL-17, phospho-STAT3, STAT1, ERK, c-Jun) were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Human primary T cells exhibited directional migration towards the cathode in low-strength EFs.
• EFs significantly downregulated T cell activation, evidenced by decreased IL-2 secretion and proliferation.
• EFs dampened CD4+ T cell polarization and reduced the expression of Th17 lineage markers (RORγt, IL-17) and phospho-STAT3, suggesting STAT3 modulation as a key mechanism.

Conclusions:

• Electrical signals, specifically EFs, are identified as significant physical drivers regulating human T cell functions.
• EFs can inhibit T cell activation and polarization, impacting immune responses.
• This research opens a new avenue for studying the effects of natural and clinical EFs in managing T cell activity.