The Balance of Th1Th2 and LAP+TregsTh17 Cells Is Crucial for Graft Survival in Allogeneic Corneal Transplantation

Abstract EN

Purpose.

CD4+LAP+ T cells are newly discovered regulatory T cells (Tregs).

The aim of this study is to investigate the balance of Th1/Th2 and LAP+Tregs/Th17 in mice after allogeneic corneal transplantation.

Methods.

A total of 65 mice received orthotopic penetrating transplantation.

According to the survival scores of the grafts, the mice were divided into the rejection group and the survival group 3 weeks after transplantation.

Th1, Th2, Th17, and regulatory T cells in the ipsilateral drainage lymph nodes and spleens were measured with flow cytometry.

The related cytokines in aqueous humor were also analyzed.

Results.

The frequencies of Foxp3+Tregs, GARP+Tregs, and LAP+Tregs in the survival group were significantly higher than those in the rejection group.

And the expression trend of CD4+LAP+ T cells and CD4+GARP+ T cells was consistent.

The level of IFN-γ, TNF, IL-6, and IL-17A markedly increased in aqueous humor during corneal allograft rejection.

The ratio of Th1/Th2 and Th17/LAP+Tregs significantly increased in the rejection group at the 3rd week after corneal transplantation.

Conclusion.

LAP+Tregs might be regarded as substitute for Foxp3+Tregs.

The balance of Th1/Th2 and LAP+Tregs/Th17 is crucial for corneal allograft survival.