Regulatory T cells (Treg)

Definition

Regulatory T cells are a subset of T lymphocytes that play a critical role in maintaining immune system balance by suppressing excessive immune responses and preventing autoimmune diseases. They help to keep the immune system in check by ensuring that it does not overreact to non-harmful antigens, which could lead to tissue damage or autoimmune disorders.

Related terms

Autoimmune diseases: Conditions where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues as if they were harmful pathogens.

Antigen: A substance or molecule that, when introduced into the body, triggers an immune response by being recognized as foreign.

Immune response: The reaction of the immune system against foreign substances, involving recognition, attack, and elimination of invading pathogens