Characterization of human CD4+EOMES+GzmK+ T-cell subsets unveils an uncoupling of suppressive functions from IL-10-producing capacities

Abstract

Human CD4⁺EOMES⁺ T cells are heterogeneous and contain Th1-cells, Tr1-cells, and CD4⁺CTL. Tr1- cells and non-classical EOMES⁺ Th1-cells displayed, respectively, anti- and pro-inflammatory cytokine profiles, but both expressed granzyme-K, produced IFN-γ, and suppressed T-cell proliferation. Diffusion map suggested a progressive CD4⁺T-cell differentiation from naïve to cytotoxic cells and identified EOMES⁺Th1-cells as putative Tr1-cell precursors (pre-Tr1).