Skin-derived TSLP systemically expands regulatory T cells.

ABSTRACT: Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are a subset of CD4⁺ T cells with suppressive function and are critical for limiting inappropriate activation of T cells. Hence, the expansion of Tregs is an attractive strategy for the treatment of autoimmune diseases. Here, we demonstrate that the skin possesses the remarkable capacity to systemically expand Treg numbers by producing thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) in response to vitamin D receptor stimulation. An ∼2-fold increase in the proportion and absolute number of Tregs was observed in mice treated topically but not systemically with the Vitamin D3 analog MC903. This expansion of Tregs was dependent on TSLP receptor signaling but not on VDR signaling in hematopoietic cells. However, TSLP receptor expression by Tregs was not required for th

SUBMITTER: Leichner TM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5386815 | biostudies-literature | 2017 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature