Contribution of Regulatory T Cell Methylation Modifications to the Pathogenesis of Allergic Airway Diseases

Figure 1

The role of Treg cells in the allergic response and the influence of DNA methylation. Treg cells inhibit a multitude of allergic reactions induced by allergens. Treg cells can act on Th2 and B cells to block the release of inflammatory cytokines (e.g., IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13), IgE, and small molecules. Treg cells can also suppress mast cell and basophil degranulation and tissue infiltration by eosinophils, as well as promote the synthesis and release of IgG4 to relieve the immune response. Following exposure to smoke, PAH, PM2.5, and other factors, DNA methylation of Treg cells is modified, which alters the effect of Treg cells on related immune cells and the allergic response. Finally, Tet2 and Tet3 work together to maintain demethylation of the Foxp3 gene in Treg cells, ensuring the stability of function.