Background
CD4(+)CD25(+) regulatory T cells can inhibit excessive T-cell responses in vivo. We have previously demonstrated that prophylactic administration of CD4(+)CD25(+) regulatory T cells suppresses the development of acute allergen-induced airway inflammation in vivo.
Conclusions
In this study we demonstrate for the first time that therapeutic transfer of CD4(+)CD25(+) regulatory T cells can resolve features of chronic allergen-induced inflammation and prevent development of airway remodeling.
Methods
CD4(+)CD25(+) cells were transferred after the onset of allergic inflammation, and airway challenges were continued to induce chronic inflammation and airway remodeling.
Objective
We sought to determine the effect of therapeutic transfer of CD4(+)CD25(+) regulatory T cells on established pulmonary inflammation and the subsequent development of airway remodeling.
Results
Administration of CD4(+)CD25(+) regulatory T cells reduced established lung eosinophilia, T(H)2 infiltration, and expression of IL-5, IL-13, and TGF-beta. Moreover, subsequent mucus hypersecretion and peribronchial collagen deposition were reduced after prolonged challenge. In contrast, transfer of CD4(+)CD25(+) regulatory T cells had no effect on established airway hyperreactivity either 7 days or 4 weeks after transfer. Conclusions: In this study we demonstrate for the first time that therapeutic transfer of CD4(+)CD25(+) regulatory T cells can resolve features of chronic allergen-induced inflammation and prevent development of airway remodeling.