T Suppressor Lymphocyte (Treg)

A T suppressor lymphocyte, also known as a suppressor T cell or regulatory T cell (Treg), is a specialized subset of immune cells that play a critical role in regulating and moderating the immune response. Their primary function is to inhibit or "suppress" the activity of other lymphocytes, thereby preventing excessive or misdirected immune responses that could lead to tissue damage or autoimmune disease. They are essential for maintaining self-tolerance and immune homeostasis, preventing autoimmunity, and terminating immune responses to prevent chronic inflammation. They achieve this through mechanisms such as secretion of inhibitory cytokines (IL-10, TGF-β), direct cytolysis, modulation of antigen-presenting cell function, and production of immunosuppressive adenosine.

Other names

Suppressor T CellRegulatory T Cell

Enhancement or inhibition of T suppressor lymphocyte activity