Human regulatory T cells in allogeneic stem cell transplantation

Blood. 2011 Sep 29;118(13):e82-92. doi: 10.1182/blood-2011-05-352708. Epub 2011 Jul 21.

Abstract

GVHD is still one of the major complications after allogeneic stem cell transplantation. Whereas murine data have clearly shown the beneficial effects of regulatory T cells (Tregs) on the prevention of GVHD, data from the human system are rare. Here, we present a comparative dynamic analysis of CD4(+)CD25(hi)CD127(lo/-) Tregs from patients with and without GVHD analyzing the whole genome profile over the first 6 months after stem cell transplantation, representing the most sensitive time window for tolerance induction. The Treg transcriptome showed a high stability. However, the comparison of Treg transcriptomes from patients with and without GVHD uncovered regulated gene transcripts highly relevant for Treg cell function. The confirmative protein analyses demonstrated a significantly higher expression of granzyme A, CXCR3, and CCR5 in Tregs of immune tolerant patients. These results point to a reduced suppressive function of Tregs from GVHD patients with diminished migration capacity to the target organs.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Graft vs Host Disease / immunology
  • Humans
  • Stem Cell Transplantation* / methods
  • T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory / immunology
  • T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory / physiology*
  • Transplantation Immunology / physiology*
  • Transplantation, Homologous