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Regulatory T cells: Therapeutic Potential for Treating Transplant Rejection and Type I Diabetes
Published on: August 20, 2007
Beyond inflammation: the multifaceted therapeutic potential of targeting the CXCL8-CXCR1/2 axis in type 1 diabetes
Georgia Fousteri1, Meghan Jones2, Rubina Novelli1
1Research & Development, Dompé Farmaceutici S.p.A, Milan, Italy.
Abstract:
Identifying novel therapeutic targets involved in the multiple mechanisms underlying the complex pathophysiology of type 1 diabetes (T1D) could change the natural history of this disease. The CXCL8-CXCR1/2 axis is emerging as a therapeutic target with a crucial, multifaceted role in T1D pathophysiology. CXCL8-dependent neutrophil chemotaxis to the pancreas precedes autoimmunity, and CXCR1/2 blockade mitigates insulitis and T1D development in preclinical models. In parallel, CXCL8 can act in a β cell-autonomous manner, and exert non-immune actions on adipocytes, hepatocytes, podocytes, and muscle cells that contribute to insulin resistance and diabetic complications. In this review, we delineate compelling evidence of immune and non-immune actions of the axis in the onset and progression of T1D. We show that the CXCL8-CXCR1/2 axis represents a promising therapeutic target for the prevention/reversal of T1D, with a meaningful potential clinical advantage conveyed by its role in multiple components of the pathology and diabetic complications.
Insights
The CXCL8-CXCR1/2 axis plays a key role in type 1 diabetes (T1D) by promoting inflammation and insulin resistance. Blocking this axis shows promise for preventing and reversing T1D and its complications.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Endocrinology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Type 1 diabetes (T1D) involves complex pathophysiology requiring novel therapeutic targets.
- The CXCL8-CXCR1/2 axis is increasingly recognized for its significant role in T1D.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the immune and non-immune actions of the CXCL8-CXCR1/2 axis in T1D onset and progression.
- To highlight the therapeutic potential of targeting this axis for T1D management.
Main Methods:
- Review of preclinical models and existing literature on the CXCL8-CXCR1/2 axis in T1D.
- Analysis of immune cell migration (neutrophil chemotaxis) and non-immune cell effects.
Main Results:
- CXCL8-dependent neutrophil infiltration precedes T1D autoimmunity.
- CXCR1/2 blockade reduces insulitis and T1D development in models.
- CXCL8 also impacts non-immune cells, contributing to insulin resistance and complications.
Conclusions:
- The CXCL8-CXCR1/2 axis is a critical factor in T1D pathogenesis.
- Targeting this axis offers a promising strategy for T1D prevention and reversal.
- Its multifaceted role presents a significant clinical advantage for treating T1D and its complications.
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