Deletion of Foxp3+ regulatory T cells in genetically targeted mice supports development of intestinal inflammation.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Mice lacking Foxp3+ regulatory T (Treg) cells develop severe tissue inflammation in lung, skin, and liver with premature death, whereas the intestine remains uninflamed. This study aims to demonstrate the importance of Foxp3+ Treg for the activation of T cells and the development of intestinal inflammation.

Methods

Foxp3-GFP-DTR (human diphtheria toxin receptor) C57BL/6 mice allow elimination of Foxp3+ Treg by treatment with Dx (diphtheria toxin). The influence of Foxp3+ Treg on intestinal inflammation was tested using the CD4+ T-cell transfer colitis model in Rag-/- C57BL/6 mice and the acute DSS-colitis model.

Results

Continuous depletion of Foxp3+ Treg in Foxp3-GFP-DTR mice led to dramatic weight loss and death of mice by day 28. After 10 days of depleti

SUBMITTER: Boehm F 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3449180 | biostudies-literature | 2012 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature