autologous γδTregs

Autologous γδTregs are a specialized population of regulatory T cells (Tregs) expressing the γδ T-cell receptor and the transcription factor Foxp3, currently under investigation as a cell-based therapeutic for alopecia areata (AA). These cells are generated ex vivo by stimulating peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) with IL-2, IL-15, and zoledronate, followed by isolation and sorting. In preclinical models, autologous γδTregs have demonstrated the ability to protect human scalp hair follicles from autoimmune attack by restoring hair follicle immune privilege (IP). Their mechanism of action involves reducing the expression of IP collapse markers such as MICA, inhibiting pathogenic IFN-γ secreting CD8+/NKG2D+ T cells, and increasing the expression of IP guardians like αMSH and TGF-β. Intradermal injection of these cells has shown potential in both preventing the onset of hair loss and inducing hair regrowth in established AA lesions.

Other names

autologous human γδTregsFoxp3+ γδTregsregulatory γδ T cells