The role of T regulatory cells in human sepsis

J Autoimmun. 2009 May-Jun;32(3-4):211-5. doi: 10.1016/j.jaut.2009.02.014. Epub 2009 Apr 3.

Abstract

It is well-known that septic shock undermines immune homeostasis by inducing an initial intense systemic inflammatory response that is rapidly followed by a negative feedback of anti-inflammatory process. This secondary immunoparalysis state is characterized by decreased phagocytic cells, T cells, natural killer cells and B cells function and proinflammatory cytokine release. This persistence of immunoparalysis increased the risk for fatal outcome. In recent studies it was found that following the onset of septic shock, a relative increase in T regulatory cells number and suppressive function appears and makes them an important participant in the inhibition of immune responsiveness during sepsis. Consequently, a question emerging from these findings concerns the degree to which the manipulation of T regulatory cells might improve the outcome of patients with sepsis. Preliminary studies in animal models suggest that more work is needed to understand the conditions under which such a therapy may be effective.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antigens, CD / immunology
  • Antigens, CD / metabolism
  • CTLA-4 Antigen
  • Cytokines / immunology*
  • Cytokines / metabolism
  • Forkhead Transcription Factors / immunology
  • Forkhead Transcription Factors / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Immune Tolerance / immunology
  • Sepsis / immunology*
  • Sepsis / metabolism
  • Shock, Septic / immunology
  • Shock, Septic / metabolism
  • T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory / immunology*
  • T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory / metabolism

Substances

  • Antigens, CD
  • CTLA-4 Antigen
  • CTLA4 protein, human
  • Cytokines
  • Forkhead Transcription Factors