Regulatory T (Treg) cells

Definition

Regulatory T (Treg) cells are a subset of T cells that modulate the immune response, maintaining tolerance to self-antigens and preventing autoimmune disease. They play a crucial role in suppressing excessive immune reactions and ensuring immune homeostasis.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Treg cells express the transcription factor FOXP3, which is essential for their development and function.
2. Treg cells can inhibit the activity of other immune cells such as effector T cells and dendritic cells.
3. They produce anti-inflammatory cytokines like IL-10 and TGF-β to suppress immune responses.
4. Treg cell deficiency or dysfunction can lead to autoimmune diseases and chronic inflammation.
5. Treg cells are involved in cancer progression by limiting the anti-tumor immune response.

Related terms

Effector T Cells: A type of T cell that actively responds to a stimulus, such as an infected or cancerous cell.

FOXP3: A transcription factor crucial for the development and regulatory functions of Treg cells.

Cytokines:

Small proteins released by cells that have a specific effect on the interactions and communications between cells in the immune response.