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Scientists are unlocking secrets of Treg cells for new therapies
Researchers at the University of Mainz are decoding the process of Treg cell development, which promises new therapies for autoimmune diseases.
Scientists are unlocking secrets of Treg cells for new therapies
Scientists at Mainz University Medical Center, the Leibniz Institute for Immunotherapy (LIT) and the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) have made significant progress in understanding the development of regulatory T cells, also known as Treg cells. Their research results were published in the scientific journalNature Immunologypublished and could enable new therapeutic approaches to treat autoimmune diseases and tissue injuries. Treg cells are a specialized subset of immune cells that play an essential role in suppressing harmful immune responses as well as promoting tissue regeneration, such as Mainz University Medical Center reported.
The scientists particularly focused on the molecular process by which Treg cells become tissue Treg cells. This conversion is crucial for supporting wound healing processes. A new transregional research network called TRR 355 was launched to intensify research on this topic. The study carried out comprehensive analyzes of epigenetic changes in DNA that influence the gene activity of Treg cells.
Epigenetics and their role in Treg development
A central element of this research is DNA methylation, a process in which methyl groups are attached to specific sites on the DNA called CpG sites. This modification can significantly influence the development of Treg cells into tissue Treg cells. The study identified specific epigenetic changes in genes that play a role in gene activity. Using a DNA methylation fingerprint, the researchers were able to clearly define tissue Treg cells in human blood.
The insights gained from the study not only expand our knowledge of the programming of tissue Treg cells, but also open up new possibilities for their therapeutic use. Current research is also examining whether tissue Treg cells also occur in tumor diseases and what effects they have on tumor growth and metastasis.
The importance of Treg cells for health
The role of Treg cells extends far beyond wound healing. They are fundamental for maintaining immunological balance in the body. Impaired Treg function is linked to a variety of diseases, such as allergies, autoimmune diseases and even cancer. The authors Bellanti et al. highlight that the interaction between Treg cells and the intestinal microbiota is crucial for their development and function.
DNA methylation acts as a molecular switch for Treg induction and is therefore of great interest for future therapeutic approaches. The balance between Treg cell phenotypic plasticity and stability is controlled by complex epigenetic and transcriptional events.
In addition to the developments described, current reviews emphasize the far-reaching effects of epigenetic modifications on immune cells and their role in autoimmune diseases. The publication of Bagni et al. describes the interactions between genetic and environmental factors and the potential of epigenetic changes as therapeutic targets in immunotherapy.
In summary, the research work in Mainz not only expands our understanding of Treg cell differentiation, but also offers promising approaches for future therapeutic interventions in a variety of diseases.