Treg-based immunotherapy for antigen-specific immune suppression and stable tolerance induction: a perspective

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Cell Therapy
• Transplantation Immunology

Background:

• FoxP3-expressing regulatory T cells (Tregs) are crucial for immune homeostasis and tolerance.
• Both naturally occurring (nTregs) and induced Tregs (iTregs) hold significant therapeutic potential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current and prospective strategies for Treg-based immune suppression.
• To identify challenges in achieving stable antigen-specific immune suppression and tolerance induction.

Main Methods:

• In vivo expansion of nTregs using low-dose IL-2 or IL-2 muteins.
• In vitro expansion of nTregs with antigenic stimulation and IL-2.
• Engineering nTregs with synthetic receptors (e.g., CAR) for targeted suppression.
• In vitro conversion of conventional T cells (Tconvs) to Treg-like cells.

Main Results:

• Tregs can be expanded both in vivo and in vitro for therapeutic purposes.
• Engineered Tregs can be endowed with specific target suppression capabilities.
• Tconvs can be converted into stable, functional Treg-like cells.

Conclusions:

• Treg-based therapies show promise for treating immunological diseases and promoting transplantation tolerance.
• Further research is needed to overcome challenges in achieving stable, antigen-specific Treg-mediated immune suppression in clinical settings.