The Foxp3+ regulatory T cell: a jack of all trades, master of regulation

Abstract

The function of regulatory T cells (T_reg cells) has been attributed to a growing number of diverse pathways, molecules and processes. Seemingly contradictory conclusions regarding the mechanisms underlying T_reg cell suppressive activity have revitalized skeptics in the field who challenge the core validity of the idea of T_reg cells as central immune regulators. However, we note that a consensus may be emerging from the data: that multiple T_reg cell functions act either directly or indirectly at the site of antigen presentation to create a regulatory milieu that promotes bystander suppression and infectious tolerance. Thus, the versatility and adaptability of the Foxp3⁺ T_reg cells may in fact be the best argument that these cells are 'multitalented masters of immune regulation'.