Lipid Metabolism in Regulatory T Cells in Health and Disease

Regulatory T cells (Tregs) play a central role in controlling immune responses. Forkhead box protein 3 (FOXP3) is a master transcription factor essential for differentiation and suppression. Recently, distinct metabolic statuses of Tregs under both physiological and pathological conditions have been reported. This review aimed to summarize lipid metabolism in Tregs. Compared to other immune cells, the increased oxidative phosphorylation and fatty acid oxidation are unique, and this metabolic profile shapes Treg-specific metabolites, including lipids. To support this unique lipid metabolism, enrichment of mitochondria has been suggested in Tregs. Other organelles, including lysosomes and peroxisomes, have been reported to interact, and crosstalk between them may facilitate preferential lipid metabolism in Tregs. In addition to their role in physiological lipid metabolism, associations between autoimmunity and tumor microenvironment have been demonstrated in various diseases. A deeper understanding of lipid metabolism in Tregs in both healthy and diseased conditions may enhance therapeutic strategies for autoimmunity and cancers, including solid tumors. In conclusion, the unique lipid metabolism of Tregs can be utilized for immunotherapy.