CAR-Treg

CAR-Treg refers to regulatory T cells (Tregs) that have been genetically engineered to express a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR). This modification enables the Tregs to recognize and home in on specific antigens present on target tissues or cells. Unlike conventional CAR-T cell therapies—which are designed for cytotoxic activity against cancer—CAR-Tregs are developed for their immunosuppressive properties. They suppress effector immune responses through mechanisms such as secretion of anti-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., IL-10, TGF-β), direct suppression of effector T cells via CTLA-4/CD80-CD86 interactions, and induction of apoptosis in target immune cells through granzyme/perforin pathways[2][3][5]. The primary therapeutic goal is to induce immune tolerance and prevent unwanted immune reactions, such as transplant rejection or autoimmunity. The technology is being explored for conditions like organ transplantation (to prevent graft rejection) and autoimmune diseases by providing targeted immunosuppression at sites expressing the relevant antigen[3][5][6]. Multiple generations of CAR constructs exist; these differ in their intracellular signaling domains and costimulatory modules[2].

Other names

chimeric antigen receptor regulatory T cellCAR-modified regulatory T cellCAR-Tregs