Regulatory T cells in the pathogenesis and healing of chronic human dermal leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania (Viannia) species.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The inflammatory response is prominent in the pathogenesis of dermal leishmaniasis. We hypothesized that regulatory T cells (Tregs) may be diminished in chronic dermal leishmaniasis (CDL) and contribute to healing during treatment.

Methodology/principal findings

The frequency and functional capacity of Tregs were evaluated at diagnosis and following treatment of CDL patients having lesions of ≥6 months duration and asymptomatically infected residents of endemic foci. The frequency of CD4(+)CD25(hi) cells expressing Foxp3 or GITR or lacking expression of CD127 in peripheral blood was determined by flow cytometry. The capacity of CD4(+)CD25(+) cells to inhibit Leishmania-specific responses was determined by co-culture with effector CD4(+)CD25(-) cells. The expressio

SUBMITTER: Rodriguez-Pinto D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3335885 | biostudies-literature | 2012

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature