Microfluidic Precision Engineered Artificial GARP Presenting Cells for Regulatory T-Cell Induction

The incidence of autoimmune diseases has increased in Western societies, highlighting the need for novel treatment strategies. Current therapies, including biologics, are limited by high costs, potential adverse effects, and often lack specificity and long-term efficacy. Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are crucial for maintaining immune tolerance and represent a promising target for autoimmune disease therapies. However, current methods for inducing Tregs, such as in vitro cytokine combinations and in vivo antigen-specific approaches, face challenges in stability and effectiveness. This research aims to develop an innovative artificial cell platform to enhance Treg induction for autoimmune disease treatment.

This study developed artificial GARP-presenting cells (aGPCs), an innovative artificial cell platform designed to mimic natural cellular functions and enhance Treg induction. We evaluated aGPC efficacy in inducing Tregs both in vitro and in vivo, comparing results with control groups. Treg populations, suppression assay, cytokine profiles (IL-10 and IFN-γ), and biocompatibility were assessed.

The current study demonstrates that aGPCs significantly increase the induction of Tregs both in vitro and in vivo compared to control groups. The aGPC-GARP⁺ group notably enhanced Treg populations and increased IL-10 secretion while reducing IFN-γ levels, indicating effective immune modulation. In vivo experiments confirmed the biocompatibility and efficacy of aGPCs in inducing Tregs in mice.

These findings suggest that aGPCs could be applied to Treg-based therapies and hold promise for developing antigen-specific treatments for inflammatory disorders and autoimmune diseases.