Induction of Lupus T Cell Subset by Probiotics-Matured Tolerogenic Dendritic Cells

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by immune dysregulation, leading to tissue inflammation and damage. Tolerogenic dendritic cells (DCs) and regulatory T cells (Tregs) play critical roles in restoring immune balance, and their dysfunction is implicated in SLE pathogenesis. This study investigates the immunomodulatory effects of Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus delbrueckii on DC function and T cell subset differentiation in SLE patients. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated from SLE patients and healthy controls. Mixed lymphocyte reactions (MLRs) were performed to evaluate the effects of DCs treated with L. rhamnosus, L. delbrueckii, or their combination on T cell differentiation. Expression of immune markers (FOXP3, TGF-β, IL-10, ROR-γt, IL-17, T-bet, IFN-γ, GATA3, IL-4) was quantified using real-time PCR, and Treg, Th1, and Th17 populations were assessed via flow cytometry. Probiotic-treated DCs significantly increased Treg populations and FOXP3 and TGF-β expression in SLE patients compared to healthy controls, with the combined probiotic treatment showing the most pronounced effect. Th17 and Th1 cell populations, along with ROR-γt and IFN-γ expression, were significantly reduced in probiotic-treated groups, particularly in SLE patients. IL-10 expression increased but did not reach statistical significance. L. rhamnosus and L. delbrueckii promote tolerogenic DC function, enhancing Treg induction and suppressing pro-inflammatory Th17 and Th1 responses in SLE. The synergistic effect of combined probiotics suggests their potential as a complementary therapy for immune modulation in autoimmune diseases. Further clinical studies are needed to confirm their efficacy and safety in SLE management.