Regulatory T cells
The role of distinct regulatory T cells that reduce inflammation is well documented and has primarily focused on the mutual antagonism between Th1 and Th2 cells, which secrete IFN-γ and IL-4 cytokines, respectively. In contrast, control of Th1 and Th2 cells by regulatory T cells that secrete high levels of IL-10 and/or TGF-β cytokines, but not IFN-γ or IL-4, has prompted a paradigm shift in our understanding of the regulation of inflammatory immune responses.
In some cases, pathogen-derived immuno-modulatory molecules induce regulatory T cells, stimulate IL-10 production from macrophages/dendritic cells, or inhibit inflammatory signalling pathways. These molecules could interact with pathogen recognition receptors, such as Toll-like receptors (TLRs), but stimulate IL-10, TGF-β or regulatory cytokines instead of cytokines that activate inflammation.
Opsona is working on ways to manipulate the T-reg cells to treat cancer, infectious diseases & potentially autoimmune & inflammatory diseases.
