Regulatory T cells (Treg cells) are key immune cells that prevent excessive inflammation and autoimmunity by suppressing immune responses when they are no longer needed. To carry out this moderating role, Treg cells rely on the transcription factor Foxp3, long considered essential for Treg cell identity and function. However, whether mature Treg cells always require Foxp3—or only when responding to immune threats—has remained a mystery. Researchers from Joris van der Veeken’s lab at the Research Institute of Molecular Pathology (IMP) have now shown that Foxp3 is indispensable during inflammation. They also found that selectively breaking down Foxp3 triggers a strong anti-tumour immune response without harmful side effects, making it a promising target for cancer immunotherapy. Their findings are published in the journal Science Immunology.
Scientists in the lab of Joris van der Veeken at the Research Institute of Molecular Pathology (IMP) used a new method that triggers the precise breakdown of Foxp3—key transcription factor for Regulatory T cells (Treg) in the immune system—with controlled short timing. They showed that Foxp3 is essential only during inflammation, when Treg cells are activated. The researchers also found that breaking down Foxp3 triggers a strong anti-tumour immune response without harmful side effects, suggesting a potential safe and effective target for improving cancer immunotherapy. Their findings are published in the journal Science Immunology.
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