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An endogenous aryl hydrocarbon receptor ligand enhances de novo generation of regulatory T cells in humans
Author(s) -
Zamali Imen,
Rekik Raja,
Belhadj Hmida Nadia,
Ben Hmid Ahlem,
Kammoun Ons,
Barbouche MohamedRidha,
Ben Ahmed Mélika
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
journal of leukocyte biology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.819
H-Index - 191
eISSN - 1938-3673
pISSN - 0741-5400
DOI - 10.1002/jlb.2ab0518-205rr
Subject(s) - aryl hydrocarbon receptor , biology , ligand (biochemistry) , transcription factor , endogeny , receptor , immune system , xenobiotic , foxp3 , microbiology and biotechnology , immunology , pharmacology , biochemistry , gene , enzyme
The aromatic hydrocarbons receptor (AhR) is a ligand‐dependent transcription factor that plays a role in mediating toxicity to xenobiotics. Its key role in immune regulation has been recently demonstrated. Recent data pointed to the efficacy of ITE (2‐(1′H‐indole‐3′‐carbonyl)‐thiazole‐4‐carboxylic acid methyl ester), a nontoxic ligand of AhR, in experimental models of inflammatory diseases. Such effect was mainly through the expansion of regulatory T cells (Tregs). Similarly, TCDD (2,3,7,8‐tetrachlorodibenzo‐p‐dioxin), a toxic ligand of AhR, has been shown to exert comparable effects on Tregs in mice. Herein, we showed that ITE has no effects on natural Tregs. However, it supports the de novo generation of Tregs in humans while promoting their suppressive functions. Our data bring new elements supporting the use of ITE in human therapy of inflammatory diseases.