Download Cell permeable Foxp3 protein converts CD4 T cells to suppressor

Title
Regulation of T cells with Foxp3 suppresses allergic and autoimmune disease
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Treg) are a very powerful component of the immune system, as they
have the capacity to down-modulate T cell-mediated immune responses. Foxp3 is a key
transcription factor in Tregs related with differentiation, function, and survival of
CD4+CD25+ Tregs. Foxp3-transduced T cells have been studied for conversion of
CD4+CD25- T cells to CD4+CD25+ Treg cells as well as for inhibition of T cell activation
and proliferation. To study about Foxp3 function in T cells, we have generated a
recombinant protein of Foxp3 combined with previously identified novel PTD (protein
transduction domain) of Hph-1. Hph-1-Foxp3 can convert CD4+CD25- T cells to
suppressor cells as well as inhibit T cell activation and proliferation in vitro and in vivo.
Sever systemic autoimmune response in Foxp3-mutant scurfy mice were significantly
reconstituted by i.p. injection and also treatment of Hph-1-Foxp3 suppressed scurfy CD4
T cell mediated-inflammatory bowl disease (IBD). Furthermore, Foxp3-mediated T cell
anergy and increase of suppressor cells strongly inhibited OVA-induced lung
inflammation by intra-nasal delivery of Foxp3. These results emphasize the possibility of
Foxp3 as a therapeutic agent in allergic and autoimmune diseases.