Growth Arrest-Specific 6 Enhances the Suppressive Function of CD4⁺CD25⁺ Regulatory T Cells Mainly through Axl Receptor.

ABSTRACT: Background. Growth arrest-specific (Gas) 6 is one of the endogenous ligands of TAM receptors (Tyro3, Axl, and Mertk), and its role as an immune modulator has been recently emphasized. Naturally occurring CD4⁺CD25⁺ regulatory T cells (Tregs) are essential for the active suppression of autoimmunity. The present study was designed to investigate whether Tregs express TAM receptors and the potential role of Gas6-TAM signal in regulating the suppressive function of Tregs. Methods. The protein and mRNA levels of TAM receptors were determined by using Western blot, immunofluorescence, flow cytometry, and RT-PCR. Then, TAM receptors were silenced using targeted siRNA or blocked with specific antibody. The suppressive function of Tregs was assessed by using a CFS

SUBMITTER: Zhao GJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5320320 | biostudies-literature | 2017

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature