Regulatory T Lymphocyte (CD4+ FoxP3+) (Treg)

Regulatory T lymphocytes, commonly referred to as regulatory T cells or Tregs, are a specialized subset of CD4+ T cells characterized by the expression of the transcription factor FoxP3. These cells play a critical role in maintaining immune system balance by suppressing excessive immune responses and promoting self-tolerance, thereby preventing autoimmune diseases. Tregs achieve these effects through multiple mechanisms: secretion of inhibitory cytokines such as IL-10, IL-35, and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF‑β), induction of apoptosis in target effector cells via granzyme B/perforin pathways and Modulation of antigen-presenting cell function through molecules like CTLA‑4.

Other names

Regulatory T cellCD4+ FoxP3+ T cellTreg cell

Modulation of immune responses through cytokine secretion (IL-10, IL-35, TGF-β), cytolysis (granzyme B/perforin), metabolic disruption (IL-2 consumption, adenosine production), and APC modulation (CTLA-4)