Transforming growth factor-β1 in regulatory T cell biology.

ABSTRACT: Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) is inextricably linked to regulatory T cell (T_reg) biology. However, precisely untangling the role for TGF-β1 in T_reg differentiation and function is complicated by the pleiotropic and context-dependent activity of this cytokine and the multifaceted biology of T_regs. Among CD4⁺ T cells, T_regs are the major producers of latent TGF-β1 and are uniquely able to activate this cytokine via expression of cell surface docking receptor glycoprotein A repetitions predominant (GARP) and αv integrins. Although a preponderance of evidence indicates no essential roles for T_reg-derived TGF-β1 in T_reg immunosuppression, TGF-β1 signaling is crucial for T_reg development in the thymus and periphery. Furthermore, active TGF-β1 instructs the differentiation of other T cell subsets, including T_H17 cells. Here, we will review TGF-β1 signaling in T_reg development and function and discuss knowledge gaps, future research, and the TGF-β1/T_reg axis in the context of cancer immunotherapy and fibrosis.

SUBMITTER: Moreau JM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10552796 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature