Role of regulatory T cells in spinal cord injury

European Journal of Medical Research, 2023 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s40001-023-01122-6 · Published: April 17, 2023

Spinal Cord Injury Immunology Neurology

Simple Explanation

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is an intricate process where inflammation plays a central role. Finding ways to counteract the harmful effects of inflammation is crucial. Regulatory T cells (Treg cells) can suppress the activation, proliferation, and functions of various cells through different mechanisms. This review explores how Treg cells regulate inflammatory cells to aid spinal cord recovery. The review also discusses the potential adverse effects of Treg cells, current treatment approaches, and the future possibilities of cell-based therapies for spinal cord injury.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Not specified

Evidence Level

Review

Key Findings

1
Treg cells can repair the spinal cord by affecting the polarization of macrophages/microglia, shifting them from a pro-inflammatory (M1) to a neuroprotective (M2) phenotype.
2
Treg cells can enhance efferocytosis by macrophages/microglia, which is crucial for clearing apoptotic cells and resolving inflammation during the recovery phase.
3
Treg cells promote oligodendrocyte differentiation and myelination through the secretion of CCN3, a growth regulatory protein, positively affecting the recovery process for SCI.

Research Summary

This review provides an overview of the regulatory role of Treg cells in spinal cord injury, highlighting their mechanisms of action on various cell types involved in the injury response. Treg cells modulate macrophages/microglia polarization and pyroptosis, enhance efferocytosis, and regulate oligodendrocytes and astrocytes, all contributing to spinal cord repair. Future research should focus on improving Treg cell survival and delivery through biomaterials to enhance their therapeutic potential in spinal cord injury.

Practical Implications

Therapeutic target

Treg cells represent a potential therapeutic target for spinal cord injury due to their ability to modulate inflammation and promote tissue repair.

Biomaterial delivery

Combining Treg cell therapy with biomaterials may improve cell survival and delivery, leading to enhanced functional recovery after SCI.

Clinical translation

Further research and clinical trials are needed to translate the promising preclinical findings of Treg cell therapy into effective treatments for spinal cord injury patients.

Study Limitations

1
The review acknowledges that excessive Treg cell activity could potentially hinder the beneficial spontaneous immune response needed for neuronal survival.
2
The review mentions challenges in cell therapy trials, including regulatory requirements, efficacy trials, and sustainable funding.
3
The dual characteristics of astrocyte-derived factors suggest that a nuanced approach is required, stimulating beneficial molecules while attenuating deleterious ones.

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