The critical contribution of TGF‐β to the induction of Foxp3 expression and regulatory T cell function

Abstract

Stimulation of mouse CD4⁺ T cells in the presence of TGF‐β results in the expression of Foxp3 and induction of T_reg function. Stimulation of human CD4⁺ T cells under similar conditions results in the expression of Foxp3, but the cells lack regulatory cell function. TGF‐β expressed on the surface of T_reg also induces Foxp3 expression and T_reg function in responder cells. Both of these mechanisms may play a role in vivo in the induction of antigen‐specific extra‐thymic T_reg. See accompanying commentary: http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/eji.200738109