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Updated: Dec 15, 2025

Phenotypic and Functional Analysis of Activated Regulatory T Cells Isolated from Chronic Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis Virus-infected Mice
Published on: June 22, 2016
Emerging patterns of regulatory T cell function in tuberculosis.
A Ahmed1, A Vyakarnam1,2
1Laboratory of Immunology of HIV-TB Co-infection, Center for Infectious Disease Research (CIDR), Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore, India.
Regulatory T cells (Treg) play a complex role in tuberculosis (TB) immunity. Their function shifts with disease stage, potentially hindering early responses but regulating inflammation later, though this can be compromised.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Tuberculosis (TB) remains a leading global infectious cause of mortality.
- Understanding immune responses is crucial for developing new TB vaccines and therapies.
- The precise role of regulatory T cells (Treg) in TB pathogenesis is not well-defined.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and synthesize current knowledge on Treg function in tuberculosis.
- To elucidate the dynamic role of Tregs across different stages of TB infection.
- To identify potential therapeutic targets related to Treg modulation in TB.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies in animal models and human TB patients.
- Analysis of emerging patterns in Treg function and immune homeostasis.
- Examination of Treg interactions with other immune cells, including HLA-DR+ CD4+ effector T cells.
Main Results:
- Treg activity in TB is stage-dependent, potentially delaying protective immunity early on.
- In chronic TB, Tregs may limit excessive inflammation, but this function can be impaired.
- Expansion of suppression-resistant effector T cells can compromise Treg homeostatic roles.
Conclusions:
- Treg function in TB is complex and context-dependent, influencing disease progression.
- A balanced immune response, considering both Treg frequency and function, is vital for TB control.
- Further research into Treg qualitative aspects is essential for novel TB treatment strategies.
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