Frontiers in Immunology (Jan 2024)

Augmenting regulatory T cells: new therapeutic strategy for rheumatoid arthritis

  • Jiaqian Zhang,
  • Hongjiang Liu,
  • Yuehong Chen,
  • Huan Liu,
  • Shengxiao Zhang,
  • Geng Yin,
  • Qibing Xie

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3389/fimmu.2024.1312919
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 15

Abstract

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Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, systemic autoimmune condition marked by inflammation of the joints, degradation of the articular cartilage, and bone resorption. Recent studies found the absolute and relative decreases in circulating regulatory T cells (Tregs) in RA patients. Tregs are a unique type of cells exhibiting immunosuppressive functions, known for expressing the Foxp3 gene. They are instrumental in maintaining immunological tolerance and preventing autoimmunity. Increasing the absolute number and/or enhancing the function of Tregs are effective strategies for treating RA. This article reviews the studies on the mechanisms and targeted therapies related to Tregs in RA, with a view to provide better ideas for the treatment of RA.

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