Can regulatory T cells prevent autoimmunity? This review discusses the role of regulatory CD4+ T cells in preventing organ-specific autoimmunity, noting that clonal deletion of autoreactive T cells in the thymus is not the only mechanism for tolerance. Research suggests that reconstituting immunodeficient animals with regulatory CD4+ T cells prevents autoimmunity. These regulatory cells, generated in the thymus, can be distinguished from effector cells by unique membrane antigens. However, the target antigens and mechanisms of action for these suppressor populations remain poorly defined. The removal of these cells aids in the induction of immunity to weak antigens. Understanding regulatory T cell function holds promise for treating autoimmune diseases and preventing allograft rejection. Enhancement of regulatory T cell function could be a valuable addition to therapeutic strategies, potentially improving outcomes for autoimmune disorders and transplant recipients.
Published in the Annual Review of Immunology, this article aligns with the journal’s comprehensive coverage of the latest developments in immunology research. By focusing on the role of regulatory T cells in autoimmunity, the review contributes to the journal’s mission of providing authoritative insights into the mechanisms and therapeutic potential of immune regulation in disease prevention.