Imaging the function of regulatory T cells in vivo.

摘要: Despite extensive research on regulatory T cells (Tregs) since their rebirth more than twenty years ago, the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which they act to suppress immune responses remain largely elusive. In vitro suppression assays are instrumental in functional identification of these cells. However, suppressive defined might not be relevant situations vivo. Advances live tissue intravital imaging technologies combined with ability grow large numbers Tregs for vivo experimentation have created an opportunity analyze Treg function native environment real-time. Two-photon laser-scanning microscopic studies control lymph node priming suggest that exert limiting helper (Th) cell access dendritic (DCs). absence Tregs, Th initially form transient interactions DCs lead arrest formation stable conjugates between DCs. presence increasing number prolonged contacts progressively inhibited. The reduced DC associated suppressed proliferation differentiation Expansion such analysis peripheral tissues together development reporter mice will help further elucidate mode operation