Frontiers in Immunology (Jul 2021)

Antigen-Specific Treg Therapy in Type 1 Diabetes – Challenges and Opportunities

  • Isabelle Serr,
  • Isabelle Serr,
  • Felix Drost,
  • Benjamin Schubert,
  • Benjamin Schubert,
  • Carolin Daniel,
  • Carolin Daniel,
  • Carolin Daniel

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3389/fimmu.2021.712870
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 12

Abstract

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Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are key mediators of peripheral self-tolerance and alterations in their frequencies, stability, and function have been linked to autoimmunity. The antigen-specific induction of Tregs is a long-envisioned goal for the treatment of autoimmune diseases given reduced side effects compared to general immunosuppressive therapies. However, the translation of antigen-specific Treg inducing therapies for the treatment or prevention of autoimmune diseases into the clinic remains challenging. In this mini review, we will discuss promising results for antigen-specific Treg therapies in allergy and specific challenges for such therapies in autoimmune diseases, with a focus on type 1 diabetes (T1D). We will furthermore discuss opportunities for antigen-specific Treg therapies in T1D, including combinatorial strategies and tissue-specific Treg targeting. Specifically, we will highlight recent advances in miRNA-targeting as a means to foster Tregs in autoimmunity. Additionally, we will discuss advances and perspectives of computational strategies for the detailed analysis of tissue-specific Tregs on the single-cell level.

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