Deficiency of decorin induces expression of Foxp3 in CD4(+)CD25(+) T cells in a murine model of allergic asthma

摘要

Background and objectiveDecorin (Dcn), an extracellular matrix proteoglycan, has several important biological functions, and its deposition is altered in the airway wall of humans with asthma and animal models of asthma. Due to its high affinity for transforming growth factor beta (TGF)-, Dcn can function as part of a negative feedback mechanism, resulting in the regulation of this factor's bioavailability. Dcn deficient (Dcn(-/-)) mice develop reduced airway inflammation, hyperresponsiveness and remodeling in response to repeated allergen challenge; we investigated whether regulatory T cells play a role in the diminished airway response of Dcn(-/-) mice.