Role of regulatory T cells and FOXP3 in human diseases

Immune regulation and tolerance are specific functions ofthe immune system, meaning at prevention or limitation ofeffector immune responses against inner and external insults.Regulatory T (Treg) cells are crucial players in this immunebalance network. Research over the last 10 years hassignificantly contributed to characterizing Treg cell features,their mechanisms of function, and their role in humanpathologies. The discovery of FOXP3 as an essentialtranscription factor not only for differentiation and functionof naturally occurring Treg cells but also for regulationof intracellular molecules related to effector T-cellresponses has provided new insights into the pathogenesisof immune-mediated diseases. Interestingly, there is increasingevidence that the individual signature of genes relevantfor immune regulation definitely influences the final outcomeof an immune response.