Regulatory T cell modulation

"Regulatory T cell modulation" refers to a class of therapeutic strategies aiming to alter the number or function of regulatory T cells (Tregs), a specialized subset of CD4+ T cells essential for maintaining immune homeostasis and tolerance. Approaches to modulate Tregs include depletion or inhibition (to enhance antitumor immunity) or expansion/activation (to treat autoimmunity or prevent transplant rejection). Common molecular targets for modulating Treg function include FOXP3, CD25 (IL-2 receptor alpha), GARP, and multiple metabolic and cytokine signaling pathways. Because "regulatory T cell modulation" describes a biological mechanism rather than a discrete molecule, it is not a canonical drug target in itself[1][2][3][5][6].

Other names

Treg modulationRegulatory T cell therapyTreg targetingTreg depletion/enhancement

Mechanisms include depletion of Tregs (e.g., anti-CD25 ADCs), inhibition of Treg function (e.g., PI3Kδ inhibition), enhancement of Treg stability or expansion (e.g., low-dose IL-2, GARP targeting), and metabolic reprogramming.