LIFE SCIENCE

Detailed explanation-1: -Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are a subset of T lymphocytes, characterized by the expression of the master transcription factor forkhead box P3 (Foxp3), the expression of the interleukin (IL)-2 receptor chain (IL-2R, or CD25) and the ability to suppress other T cell subsets.

Detailed explanation-2: -Transcriptional factor Foxp3 serves as a lineage specification factor of Treg cells. Paucity of Treg cells due to loss-of-function mutations of the Foxp3 gene is responsible for highly aggressive, fatal systemic immune mediated inflammatory lesions in mice and men.

Detailed explanation-3: -Treg cells are characterized by the expression of canonical markers that are common regardless of their origin. In secondary lymphoid organs, Treg cells are characterized by high expression of Foxp3, CD25, GITR, Nrp1, Helios, and CTLA-4 as compared to conventional CD4 T cells (Figure 7.2a and b).

Detailed explanation-4: -FOXP3+ regulatory T (Treg) cells are critical in maintaining immune tolerance and homeostasis of the immune system. The molecular mechanisms underlying the stability, plasticity and functional activity of Treg cells have been much studied in recent years.