A long needed re-evaluation of cells that suppress

摘要

The explosion of murine colitis models over the past 10-15 years has underscored the requirement for tight regulation of immune responses in the intestine. The models are generally divided into 2 groups; those with defects in T cell function/ regulation and those with defects in barrier function [1-4]. Regardless of the underlying defects leading to the inflammatory process, two observations are clear: the presence of a microbial flora is required to develop disease and the addition of cells that regulate inflammation controls the disease process [4]. Given the level of antigen exposure in the Gl tract (commensal flora and dietary antigens), the existence of such regulatory cells (probably multiple types) is critical to normal homeostasis.