Environmental influences on T regulatory cells in inflammatory bowel disease

Semin Immunol. 2011 Apr;23(2):130-8. doi: 10.1016/j.smim.2011.01.012. Epub 2011 Feb 3.

Abstract

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is characterized by chronic, idiopathic inflammation of the intestine. The disease is thought to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors which ultimately leads to a mucosal immune system that overreacts to normal constituents of the mucosal microbiota. The inflammation in IBD is primarily mediated by inappropriate production of proinflammatory cytokines by CD4(+) T effector cells, effects that are suppressed by CD4(+) T regulatory cells. Defects in both the function of T regulatory cells, and the ability of T effector cells to be suppressed, have been implicated in IBD. In this review we will discuss environmental factors, including cytokines, vitamins A and D, and commensal bacteria, which influence the phenotype and function of regulatory T cells and thereby alter the course of IBD. We will also discuss how these environmental signals can be manipulated therapeutically in order to improve the function of regulatory T cells and ultimately restore mucosal homeostasis in patients with IBD.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Homeostasis
  • Humans
  • Inflammatory Bowel Diseases / drug therapy
  • Inflammatory Bowel Diseases / immunology*
  • Inflammatory Bowel Diseases / microbiology
  • Inflammatory Bowel Diseases / prevention & control
  • T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory / immunology*
  • Vitamin A / administration & dosage
  • Vitamin D / administration & dosage
  • Vitamins / administration & dosage

Substances

  • Vitamins
  • Vitamin A
  • Vitamin D