Regulatory T cells and their role in allergic disease

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articleContributedpeer-review

Contributors

  • Melanie L. Conrad - , Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Augsburg University (Author)
  • Gabriela Barrientos - , Hospital Alemán, National Scientific and Technical Research Council Argentina (CONICET) (Author)
  • Xuejun Cai - , Institute of Medical Microbiology and Virology (Author)
  • Saikat Mukherjee - , Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School (HMS) (Author)
  • Mrinmoy Das - , Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School (HMS) (Author)
  • Emmanuel Stephen‐Victor - , University of Utah Hospital (Author)
  • Hani Harb - , Institute of Medical Microbiology and Virology (Author)

Abstract

The incidence of allergic diseases has been rising over the past decades, and this troubling trend coincides with environmental changes such as shifts in diet and increased antibiotic use, both of which can impact our immune system. Allergic reactions occur when the immune system overreacts to normally harmless substances, and it is known that regulatory T cells (Tregs) play a major role in immune system suppression and the generation of tolerance. However, new research suggests that Tregs can malfunction in environments that promote allergies. This review delves into Treg function, and how environmental factors can influence their ability to maintain immune homeostasis. Specifically, we explore the origins of Treg cells, as well as the mechanisms used for suppression of inflammation and tissue healing, with a concentration on food allergies, atopic dermatitis and asthma. Understanding Treg function in the context of a changing environment is crucial for developing new strategies to prevent and treat allergies.

Details

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)77-93
Number of pages17
JournalAllergy
Volume80
Issue number1
Early online date27 Sept 2024
Publication statusPublished - Jan 2025
Peer-reviewedYes

External IDs

Scopus 85205035104
PubMed 40497455

Keywords