γδ T cells restrain extrathymic development of Foxp3+-inducible regulatory T cells via IFN-γ

Abstract

Inducible Treg (iTreg) cells generated from Ag-stimulated naïve CD4(+) T cells in the periphery play an important role in regulating immune responses. TGF-β is a key cytokine that promotes this conversion process; however, how this process is regulated in vivo remains unclear. Here, we report that γδ T cells play a crucial role in controlling iTreg generation and suppressor function. Ag-induced iTreg generation was significantly enhanced in C57BL/6 mice in the absence of γδ T cells. Inhibition of iTreg conversion was mediated by IFN-γ produced by activated γδ T cells but not by activated CD4(+) T cells. BM chimera experiments further confirmed γδ-derived IFN-γ-dependent mechanism in regulating iTreg generation in vivo. Lastly, human peripheral blood γδ T cells also interfere with iTreg conversion via IFN-γ. Our results suggest a novel function of γδ T cells in limiting the generation of iTreg cells, potentially balancing immunity and tolerance.

Keywords: CD4+ T cell; IFN-γ; Inflammation; Intestine; Oral tolerance; Regulatory T cells; iTreg cells; γδ T cell.