T regulatory cells in autoimmune diabetes: past challenges, future prospects

INTRODUCTION

Accumulating evidence suggests that defective regulation is an essential underlying cause of autoimmunity. The development of type 1 diabetes in the NOD mouse strain it is a complex process that depends on a fine balance between pathogenic and regulatory pathways.

DISCUSSION

We have utilized a series of transgenic and knockout mice to determine the relative importance of regulatory T cells and negative regulatory receptors on the development and progression of type 1 diabetes.

CONCLUSION

This review will focus on the origins and function of Treg in peripheral self-tolerance. We will summarize the role of Treg in preventing autoimmune diseases, with a particular focus on Type 1 Diabetes (T1D), and discuss the prospects for Treg-based therapies for autoimmune diseases.