The potential of regulatory T cell-based therapies for alopecia areata

Abstract

Cytotoxic T lymphocyte has been a concern for the etiopathogenesis of alopecia areata (AA), some recent evidence suggests that the regulatory T (Treg) cell deficiency is also a contributing factor. In the lesional scalp of AA, Treg cells residing in the follicles are impaired, leading to dysregulated local immunity and hair follicle (HF) regeneration disorders. New strategies are emerging to modulate Treg cells’ number and function for autoimmune diseases. There is much interest to boost Treg cells in AA patients to suppress the abnormal autoimmunity of HF and stimulate hair regeneration. With few satisfactory therapeutic regimens available for AA, Treg cell-based therapies could be the way forward. Specifically, CAR-Treg cells and novel formulations of low-dose IL-2 are the alternatives.

Immune niches for hair follicle development and homeostasis

“…This autoimmune assault is often initiated by cytotoxic T cells, which target and damage the hair follicles, leading to hair loss. Treg cells, typically responsible for suppressing immune responses and maintaining tolerance, are found in reduced numbers or are functionally impaired in alopecia areata ( Wan et al, 2023 ). The imbalance between effector T cells and Tregs is a critical factor in the progression of this disease.…”

“…Frontiers in Physiology frontiersin.org tolerance, are found in reduced numbers or are functionally impaired in alopecia areata (Wan et al, 2023). The imbalance between effector T cells and Tregs is a critical factor in the progression of this disease.…”