The Role of GITR/GITRL Interaction in Autoimmune Diseases

Front Immunol. 2020 Oct 9:11:588682. doi: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.588682. eCollection 2020.

Abstract

Glucocorticoid-induced TNFR-related protein (GITR) is a member of the TNFR superfamily which is expressed in various cells, including T cells, natural killer cells and some myeloid cells. GITR is activated by its ligand, GITRL, mainly expressed on antigen presenting cells and endothelial cells. It has been acknowledged that the engagement of GITR can modulate both innate and adaptive immune responses. Accumulated evidence suggests GITR/GITRL interaction is involved in the pathogenesis of tumor, inflammation and autoimmune diseases. In this review, we describe the effects of GITR/GITRL activation on effector T cells, regulatory T cells (Tregs) and myeloid cells; summarize its role and the underlying mechanisms in modulating autoimmune diseases.

Keywords: GITRL; T cell; autoimmune diseases; glucocorticoid-induced TNFR-related protein; myeloid cells.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Autoimmune Diseases / immunology*
  • Glucocorticoid-Induced TNFR-Related Protein / immunology*
  • Humans
  • Myeloid Cells / immunology
  • T-Lymphocytes / immunology
  • Tumor Necrosis Factors / immunology*

Substances

  • Glucocorticoid-Induced TNFR-Related Protein
  • TNFRSF18 protein, human
  • TNFSF18 protein, human
  • Tumor Necrosis Factors