Amphiregulin Enhances Regulatory T Cell-Suppressive Function via the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor

作者：Zaiss Dietmar M W^*; van Loosdregt Jorg; Gorlani Andrea; Bekker Cornelis P J; Grone Andrea; Sibilia Maria; Henegouwen Paul M P van Bergen En; Roovers Rob C; Coffer Paul J; Sijts Alice J A M

来源：Immunity, 2013, 38(2): 275-284.

DOI：10.1016/j.immuni.2012.09.023

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is known to be critically involved in tissue development and homeostasis as well as in the pathogenesis of cancer. Here we showed that Foxp3(+) regulatory T (Treg) cells express EGFR under inflammatory conditions. Stimulation with the EGF-like growth factor Amphiregulin (AREG) markedly enhanced Treg cell function in vitro, and in a colitis and tumor vaccination model we showed that AREG was critical for efficient Treg cell function in vivo. In addition, mast cell-derived AREG fully restored optimal Treg cell function. These findings reveal EGFR as a component in the regulation of local immune responses and establish a link between mast cells and Treg cells. Targeting of this immune regulatory mechanism may contribute to the therapeutic successes of EGFR-targeting treatments in cancer patients.

• 出版日期2013-2-21