Regulatory T cell (commonly: Regulatory T lymphocyte) (Treg cell (or Treg))

Regulatory T cells are a specialized subset of CD4+ T lymphocytes expressing the transcription factor FOXP3, which are essential for maintaining immune tolerance by suppressing excessive or autoreactive immune responses[2][3][7]. They perform this role through multiple mechanisms, including the secretion of inhibitory cytokines (IL-10, TGF-β), consumption of cytokines such as IL-2, cell-contact–dependent inhibition, metabolic disruption via adenosine production, and modulation of antigen-presenting cells[1][6]. Deficiency or dysfunction of these cells results in autoimmune diseases and immune dysregulation, while therapeutically boosting their function can promote tolerance in autoimmunity, allergy, and transplantation. Tregs are targets for both suppression (in cancer or infection) and induction (in autoimmunity and transplantation), usually through cytokine modulation, immune checkpoint targeting, or cell therapy[2][5].

Other names

TregCD4+CD25+FOXP3+ T cellsuppressor T cell

Expansion or activation of Tregs to induce immune tolerance. IL-2 pathway modulation to promote Treg survival/function. FOXP3 gene regulation. Direct suppression of effector T cells via cell-cell contact, inhibitory cytokines (IL-10, TGF-β), metabolic disruption, and adenosine production.