The changes of CD4^＋CD25^＋ regulatory T cells （CD4^＋CD25^＋ Treg） and Foxp3 mRNA in peripheral blood mononuclear cells （PBMCs） from patients with asthma were investigated in order to elucidate the possible role...The changes of CD4^＋CD25^＋ regulatory T cells （CD4^＋CD25^＋ Treg） and Foxp3 mRNA in peripheral blood mononuclear cells （PBMCs） from patients with asthma were investigated in order to elucidate the possible roles of CD4^＋CD25^＋ Treg in the development of asthma. The peripheral blood samples were collected from 29 healthy controls （normal control group） and 78 patients with asthma which included 30 patients in exacerbation group, 25 patients in persistent group, and 23 patients in remission group. By using flow cytometry and RT-PCR, the CD4^＋CD25^＋ Treg ratio and Foxp3 mRNA in PBMCs were detected. The CD4^＋CD25^＋ Treg ratio and Foxp3 mRNA in PBMCs of exacerbation and persistent groups were lower than that of remission and normal control groups （P〈0.05）. Although the CD4^＋CD25^＋ Treg ratio and Foxp3 mRNA of remission group were also lower than that of normal control group, there was no significant difference between them （P〉0.05）. As compared with persistent group, exacerbation group had lower CD4^＋CD25^＋ Treg ratio and Foxp3 mRNA （P〈0.05）. It was indicated that the decrease of CD4^＋CD25^＋ Treg ratio and its function in PBMCs may be responsible for pathogenesis of asthma.展开更多
Objective: To investigate the expression and significance of caspase-3 protein in CD34^+ cells from cord blood (CB) during culture in vitro with different growth factors. Methods: RT-PCR, Western blot and flow cytomet...Objective: To investigate the expression and significance of caspase-3 protein in CD34^+ cells from cord blood (CB) during culture in vitro with different growth factors. Methods: RT-PCR, Western blot and flow cytometry techniques were used to detect the expression of caspase-3 in CD34^+ CB cells during culture in vitro. Results: Caspase-3 mRNA was constitutively expressed at a low level in freshly isolated CD34^+ cells. The expression of caspase-3 mRNA and protein was upregulated when these cellswere first expanded in suspension culture with growth factors for 3 days. However, only the 32 kDa inactive caspase-3 proenzyme was detected in the freshly isolated CD34^+ cells as well as during the first 3 days expansion with cytokines. With longer culture time in vitro, especially in the presence of the combination of IL-3, IL-6 and GM-CSF, caspase-3 was activated and a cleavage product of 20 kDa became detectable.Conclusion: Caspase-3 is involved in apoptosis of primitive CB CD34^+ cells during expansion in vitro.展开更多
AIM： To investigate the changes of lymphocyte subpopulations, especially CD4^＋CD25^ T regulatory cells in Smad3^-/- mice. METHODS： Hematological changes and changes of lymphocyte subpopulations were detected in Sm...AIM： To investigate the changes of lymphocyte subpopulations, especially CD4^＋CD25^ T regulatory cells in Smad3^-/- mice. METHODS： Hematological changes and changes of lymphocyte subpopulations were detected in Smad3＂/- mice using cell counter and flow cytometry, respectively, and compared to their littermate controls. RESULTS： The numbers of neutrophils and lymphocytes in peripheral blood were significantly increased in Smad3^-/- mice compared to littermate controls. CD19^＋ expressing cells in blood and spleen, and CD8^＋ T cells in thymus were all markedly decreased in Smad3^-/- mice. More important, Smad3^-/- mice had an increased population of CD4^＋CD25^＋ T cells in peripheral lymphoid tissues, including thymus, spleen, and lymph nodes. CONCLUSION： These observations suggest that the changes of lymphocyte subpopulations might play a role in susceptibility to inflammation of Smad3^-/- mice.展开更多
Objective:To explore the mechanism that miR-29b and B7H3 regulate the polarization of macrophages and thus affect the differentiation of CD4^(+)T.Methods:1.PBMC was extracted from peripheral blood mononuclear cells of...Objective:To explore the mechanism that miR-29b and B7H3 regulate the polarization of macrophages and thus affect the differentiation of CD4^(+)T.Methods:1.PBMC was extracted from peripheral blood mononuclear cells of children with asthma and normal children in the affiliated Children's Hospital of Soochow University,and RNA was extracted and reverse transcribed.The expression of miR-29b and B7H3mRNA was determined by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction(Q-PCR).The family history of asthma and history of allergic diseases were collected.2.THP-1 cells were induced into macrophages,miR-29b interference,miR-29b overexpression and normal control were induced by LV526,LV527 and NC virus infection.After 24 hours of culture,the cells were collected to detect the expression of STAT3 and B7H3 genes and proteins.3.It was verified that STAT3 was the target gene of miR-29b:after inoculating THP-1 cells and culturing with PMA with final concentration of 50ng/ml for 6 hours,the macrophages without PMA were cultured for 24 hours,then the macrophages infected by LV528,LV529 and NC virus were induced to form miR-29b interference,miR29b overexpression and normal control group.Luciferase analysis was performed at 48 hours to verify that STAT3 was the target gene of miR-29b.STAT3-3'UTR luciferase reporter gene plasmids were constructed and divided into three groups:"miR-29b+STAT3-3'UTR","miR-29b+STAT3-mut-3'UTR"and"miR-29b+luciferase empty load".4.Macrophages with different treatments were co-cultured with initial T cells for 3 days.The relative expressions of T-bet,GATA3 and ROR-γt were detected by Q-PCR.Result:1.The incidence of allergic disease in the acute attack group(68%)was higher than that in the other two groups(34.8%,33.3%),and the family history of asthma in the normal group(0%)was much lower than that in the other two groups(52%,60.9%).The difference was statistically significant(P<0.05).2.The expression of B7H3 in PBMC in acute attack group was higher than that in non-acute attack group and normal group.The expression of miR-29b in PBMC in normal group was significantly higher than that in non-acute attack group and acute attack group(P<0.0001).The expression of miR-29b in non-acute attack group was significantly higher than that in acute attack group(P=0.007).3.After silencing the expression of miR-29b,IL-4Rα,IL-4,IL-5,IL-13 and CD206 of macrophages increased significantly,while IFN-γdecreased,suggesting that miR-29b can promote the polarization of macrophages to M2.4.The overexpression of miR-29b,STAT3 and B7H3 gene and protein level in macrophages decreased,while the increase of miR-29b,STAT3 and B7H3 gene and protein expression was inhibited.5.There was a significant positive correlation between the expression of STAT3 and B7H3mRNA in macrophages(r=0.9737,P<0.0001).6.STAT3 is the target gene of miR-29b.7.Co-culture of macrophages with CD4^(+)T cells can promote the differentiation of primary T cells,namely Th 0 cells,into Th2,and the promoting effect of macrophages with downregulation of miR-29b is more obvious.Conclusion:The expression of miR-29b in PBMC of children with asthma is lower than that of normal children,while the expression of B7H3 is higher than that of normal children.It is speculated that miR-29b has a protective effect on children with asthma,while B7H3 aggravates the inflammatory response.Down-regulation of miR-29b,in macrophages can promote macrophages to M2 polarization,increase the expression of B7H3 and STAT3 in macrophages,make Th0 cells differentiate into Th2 cells,and aggravate the inflammatory response in patients with asthma.展开更多
AIM： To elucidate the distribution of CD4^＋CD25^＋ regulatory T cells （Tregs） in different lymphoid tissues and its local enhancement on tumor growth before and after depletion of CD4^＋CD25^＋ Tregs. METHODS： Fe...AIM： To elucidate the distribution of CD4^＋CD25^＋ regulatory T cells （Tregs） in different lymphoid tissues and its local enhancement on tumor growth before and after depletion of CD4^＋CD25^＋ Tregs. METHODS： Female ICR mice were garaged with benzo[a]pyrene （BaP） to induce forestomach carcinoma. CD4^＋CD25^＋ Tregs were intraperitoneally depleted with monoclonal antibody PC61. These mice were divided into BaP-only, BaP ＋ IgG, BaP ＋ PC61, and control groups. The forestomach of mice was dissected for histological analysis, and tunnel test was performed for apoptosis of tumor cells. CD4^＋CD25^＋ Tregs were sorted from different lymphoid tissues and expression of Foxp3, IL-10, and chemokine receptors was analyzed by flow cytometry, semi-quantitative and veal-time polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS： The mice gavaged with only BaP showed increased forestomach papilloma and carcinoma at wk 16 and 32. The proportion of CD4^＋CD25^＋ Tregs was significantly higher in peri-stomach regional lymph nodes than in other lymphoid tissues. These CD4^＋CD25^＋ Tregs in regional lymph nodes expressed higher levels of Foxp3 and IL-10, enriched in the CD62L-subset, and CCR1 and CCR5 chemokine receptors. In mice gavaged with BaP ＋ PC61, the number of tumor nodules and tumor volume decreased significantly with massive infiltrating cells and apoptosis of tumor cells. In the draining regional lymph nodes, the number of CD4^＋CD25^＋ Tregs also decreased significantly. CONCLUSION： Inducible and activated CD4^＋CD25^＋ Tregs in the draining regional lymph nodes suppress host local immunity during tumor growth. Depletion of CD4^＋CD25^＋ Tregs can promote host local immunity to suppress tumor growth.展开更多
Background:Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease characterized by destructive polyarthritis, and abnormal T-B-cell interactions may contribute to its pathogenesis. This study aimed to investigate the char...Background:Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease characterized by destructive polyarthritis, and abnormal T-B-cell interactions may contribute to its pathogenesis. This study aimed to investigate the characteristics and roles of CD4^(+) programmed death 1 (PD-1)^(+)Foxp3^(−) T cells in relation to the B-cell response in patients with RA. Methods:This study included 155 patients with RA and 36 age- and sex-matched healthy controls (HCs) from the Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University in China. Flow cytometry was used to assess the proportion and properties of peripheral CD4^PD-1^(−)Foxp3^(+) T cells, including their proliferation, activation, cytokine production, and capacity to induce B-cell differentiation. Results:The proportion of CD4^(+)PD-1^(+)Foxp3^(−)T cells was increased in patients with RA compared with HCs ([10.78 ± 0.60]% vs. [5.67 ± 0.40]%, p < 0.001), and this was positively associated with the B-cell response. Compared with CD4^PD-1 ^(+)Foxp3 ^(+) T cells, CD4^(+)PD-1^(+)Foxp3^(−)T cells from patients with RA exhibited increased expression of Ki67 ([6.52 ± 0.41]% vs. [3.87 ± 0.42]%, p < 0.01) and activation markers, produced higher levels of cytokines, and showed enhanced B-cell differentiation. Furthermore, anti-interleukin-6R antagonists decreased the proportion, activation, and cytokine production of CD4^(+)PD-1^(+)Foxp3^(−)T cells in vitro. The frequency of type 2 CD4^(+)PD-1^(+)Foxp3^(−)T cells was significantly higher in patients with RA than that in HCs ([37.27 ± 1.43]% vs. [29.05 ± 1.30]%, p < 0.05). Conclusions:Peripherally expanded CD4^(+)PD-1^(+)Foxp3^(−)T cells in patients with RA, which induced B-cell hyperactivity, may be inclined toward type 2 helper T cells. Our findings revealed a novel T-cell subset that contributes to B-cell hyperactivity in the pathogenesis of RA.展开更多
Efficient immune responses rely on the proper differentiation of CD8^(+)T cells into effector and memory cells.Here,we show a critical requirement of N^6-Methyladenosine(m^(6)A)methyltransferase Mettl3 during CD8^(+)T...Efficient immune responses rely on the proper differentiation of CD8^(+)T cells into effector and memory cells.Here,we show a critical requirement of N^6-Methyladenosine(m^(6)A)methyltransferase Mettl3 during CD8^(+)T cell responses upon acute viral infection.Conditional deletion of Mettl3 in CD8^(+)T cells impairs effector expansion and terminal differentiation in an m^(6)A-dependent manner,subsequently affecting memory formation and the secondary response of CD8^(+)T cells.Our combined RNA-seq and m^(6)AmiCLIP-seq analyses reveal that Mettl3 deficiency broadly impacts the expression of cell cycle and transcriptional regulators.Remarkably,Mettl3 binds to the Tbx21 transcript and stabilizes it,promoting effector differentiation of CD8^(+)T cells.Moreover,ectopic expression of T-bet partially restores the defects in CD8^(+)T cell differentiation in the absence of Mettl3.Thus,our study highlights the role of Mettl3 in regulating multiple target genes in an m^(6)A-dependent manner and underscores the importance of m^(6)A modification during CD8^(+)T cell response.展开更多
T cell immunoglobulin- and mucin-domain-containing molecule-3 （Tim-3） has been reported to participate in the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases. However, whether Tim-3 is involved in hepatitis B virus （HBV） in...T cell immunoglobulin- and mucin-domain-containing molecule-3 （Tim-3） has been reported to participate in the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases. However, whether Tim-3 is involved in hepatitis B virus （HBV） infection remains unknown. Here, we studied the expression and function of Tim-3 in a hydrodynamics-based mouse model of HBV infection. A significant increase of Tim-3 expression on hepatic T lymphocytes, especially on CD8^＋ T cells, was demonstrated in HBV model mice from day 7 to day 18. After Tim-3 knockdown by specific shRNAs, significantly increased IFN-γ production from hepatic CD8^＋ T cells in HBV model mice was observed. Very interestingly, we found Tim-3 expression on CD8^＋ T cells was higher in HBV model mice with higher serum anti-HBs production. Moreover, Tim-3 knockdown influenced anti-HBs production in vivo. Collectively, our data suggested that Tim-3 might act as a potent regulator of antiviral T-cell responses in HBV infection. Cellular ＆ Molecular Immunology.展开更多
PD-1 and CTLA-4 antibodies offer great hope for cancer immunotherapy.However,many patients are incapable of responding to PD-1 and CTLA-4 blockade and show low response rates due to insufficient immune activation.The ...PD-1 and CTLA-4 antibodies offer great hope for cancer immunotherapy.However,many patients are incapable of responding to PD-1 and CTLA-4 blockade and show low response rates due to insufficient immune activation.The combination of checkpoint blockers has been proposed to increase the response rates.Besides,antibody drugs have disadvantages such as inclined to cause immune-related adverse events and infiltration problems.In this study,we developed a cyclic peptide C25 by using Ph.D.-C7C phage display technology targeting LAG-3.As a result,C25 showed a relative high affinity with human LAG-3 protein and could effectively interfere the binding between LAG-3 and HLA-DR(MHC-II).Additionally,C25 could significantly stimulate CD8^+T cell activation in human PBMCs.The results also demonstrated that C25 could inhibit tumor growth of CT26,B16 and B 16-OVA bearing mice,and the infiltration of CD8^+T cells was significantly increased while FOXP3^+Tregs significantly decreased in the tumor site.Furthermore,the secretion of IFN-γby CD8^+T cells in spleen,draining lymph nodes and especially in the tumors was promoted.Simultaneously,we exploited T cells depletion models to study the anti-tumor mechanisms for C25 peptide,and the results combined with MTT assay confirmed that C25 exerted anti-tumor effects via CD8+T cells but not direct killing.In conclusion,cyclic peptide C25 provides a rationale for targeting the immune checkpoint,by blockade of LAG-3/HLA-DR interaction in order to enhance anti-tumor immunity,and C25 may provide an alternative for cancer immunotherapy besides antibody drugs.展开更多
CD4^(+)CD25^(+) T regulatory(Treg)cells are critical in inducing and maintaining immunological self-tolerance as well as transplant tolerance.The effect of low doses of whole-body irradiation(WBI)on CD41CD251Foxp31 Tr...CD4^(+)CD25^(+) T regulatory(Treg)cells are critical in inducing and maintaining immunological self-tolerance as well as transplant tolerance.The effect of low doses of whole-body irradiation(WBI)on CD41CD251Foxp31 Treg cells has not been determined.The proportion,phenotypes and function of CD4^(+)CD25^(+) Treg cells were investigated 0.5,5 and 15 days after euthymic,thymectomized or allogeneic bone marrow transplanted C57BL/6 mice received 2-Gy c-rays of WBI.The 2-Gy WBI significantly enhanced the ratios of CD41CD251 Treg cells and CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Foxp3^(+) Treg cells to CD41 T cells in peripheral blood,lymph nodes,spleens and thymi of mice.The CD41CD251 Treg cells of the WBI-treated mice showed immunosuppressive activities on the immune response of CD4^(+)CD25^(+) T effector cells to alloantigens or mitogens as efficiently as the control mice.Furthermore,2-Gy c-ray WBI significantly increased the percentage of CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Foxp3^(+) Treg cells in the periphery of either thymectomized mice or allogeneic bone marrow transplanted mice.The in vitro assay showed that ionizing irradiation induced less cell death in CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Foxp3^(+) Treg cells than in CD4^(+)CD25^(+) T cells.Thus,a low dose of WBI could significantly enhance the level of functional CD41CD251Foxp31 Treg cells in the periphery of naive or immunized mice.The enhanced proportion of CD41CD251Foxp31 Treg cells in the periphery by a low dose of WBI may make hosts more susceptible to immune tolerance induction.展开更多
CD8^＋ natural killer T （NKT） cells from EBV-associated tumour patients are quantitatively and functionally impaired. EBV-induced CD8^＋ NKT cells drive syngeneic T cells into a Thl-bias response to suppress EBV-ass...CD8^＋ natural killer T （NKT） cells from EBV-associated tumour patients are quantitatively and functionally impaired. EBV-induced CD8^＋ NKT cells drive syngeneic T cells into a Thl-bias response to suppress EBV-associated malignancies. IL-4-biased CD4^＋ NKT cells do not affect either syngeneic T cell cytotoxicity or Th cytokine secretion. Circulating mDC1 cells from patients with EBV-associated malignancies impair the production of IFN-T by CD8^＋ NKT cells. In this study, we have established a human-thymus-SCID chimaera model to further investigate the underlying mechanism of EBV-induced CD8^＋ NKT cells in suppressing EBV-associated malignancies. In the human-thymus-SCID chimera, EBV-induced CD8^＋ NKT cells suppress EBV-associated malignancies in a manner dependent on the Thl-bias response and syngeneic CD3^＋ T cells. However, adoptive transfer with CD4^＋ NKT cells alone inhibits T cell immunity. Interestingly, CD4^＋ NKT cells themselves secrete high levels of IL-2, enhancing the persistence of adoptively transferred CD8^＋ NKT cells and T cells, thereby leading to a more pronounced T cell anti-tumour response in chimaeras co-transferred with CD4^＋ and CD8^＋ NKT cells. Thus, immune reconstitution with EBV-induced CD4^＋ and CD8^＋ NKT cells synergistically enhances T cell tumour immunity, providing a potential prophylactic and therapeutic treatment for EBV-associated malignancies.展开更多
Complications arising from abnormal immune responses are the major causes of mortality and morbidity in diabetic patients.CD4^(+)CD25^(+)T regulatory cells(Tregs)play pivotal roles in controlling immune homeostasis,im...Complications arising from abnormal immune responses are the major causes of mortality and morbidity in diabetic patients.CD4^(+)CD25^(+)T regulatory cells(Tregs)play pivotal roles in controlling immune homeostasis,immunity and tolerance.The effect of hyperglycemia on CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Tregs has not yet been addressed.Here we used streptozotocin(STZ)-induced diabetic mice to study the effects of long-term hyperglycemia on CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Tregs in vivo.Four months after the onset of diabetes,the frequency of CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Foxp3^(+)T regulatory cells was significantly elevated in the spleen,peripheral blood lymphocytes(PBLs),peripheral lymph nodes(pLNs)and mesenteric LNs(mLNs).CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Tregs obtained from mice with diabetes displayed defective immunosuppressive functions and an activated/memory phenotype.Insulin administration rescued these changes in the CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Tregs of diabetic mice.The percentage of thymic CD4^(+)CD25^(+)naturally occurring Tregs(nTregs)and peripheral CD41Helios1Foxp31 nTregs were markedly enhanced in diabetic mice,indicating that thymic output contributed to the increased frequency of peripheral CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Tregs in diabetic mice.In an in vitro assay in which Tregs were induced fromCD4^(+)CD25^(+)T cells by transforming growth factor(TGF)-b,high glucose enhanced the efficiency of CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Foxp3^(+)T inducible Tregs(iTregs)induction.In addition,CD4^(+)CD25^(+)T cells from diabetic mice were more susceptible to CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Foxp3^(+)TiTreg differentiation than those cells from control mice.These data,together with the enhanced frequency of CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Foxp3^(+)T iTregs in the periphery of mice with diabetes,indicate that enhanced CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Foxp3^(+)T iTreg induction also contributes to a peripheral increase in CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Tregs in diabetic mice.Our data show that hyperglycemia may alter the frequency of CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Foxp3^(+)T Tregs in mice,which may result in late-state immune dysfunction in patients with diabetes.展开更多
Background:Cluster of differentiation 8(CD8 T)cells play critical roles in eradicating human immunodeficiency virus(HIV)-1 infection,but little is known about the effects of T cells expressing CD8 at low levels(CD8^(l...Background:Cluster of differentiation 8(CD8 T)cells play critical roles in eradicating human immunodeficiency virus(HIV)-1 infection,but little is known about the effects of T cells expressing CD8 at low levels(CD8^(low))or high levels(CD8^(high))on HIV-1 replication inhibition after HIV-1 invasion into individual.Methods:Nineteen patients who had been acutely infected with HIV-1(AHI)and 20 patients with chronic infection(CHI)for≥2 years were enrolled in this study to investigate the dynamics of the quantity,activation,and immune responses of CD3^(+)CD8^(low) T cells and their counterpart CD3^(+)CD8^(high) T cells at different stages of HIV-1 infection.Results:Compared with healthy donors,CD3^(+)CD8^(low) T cells expanded in HIV-1-infected individuals at different stages of infection.As HIV-1 infection progressed,CD3^(+)CD8^(low) T cells gradually decreased.Simultaneously,CD3^(+)CD8^(high) T cells was significantly reduced in the first month of AHI and then increased gradually as HIV-1 infection progressed.The classical activation of CD3^(+)CD8^(low) T cells was highest in the first month of AHI and then reduced as HIV-1 infection progressed and entered the chronic stage.Meanwhile,activated CD38^(-)HLA-DR^(+)CD8^(low) T cells did not increase in the first month of AHI,and the number of these cells was inversely associated with viral load(r=-0.664,P=0.004)but positively associated with the CD4 T-cell count(r=0.586,P=0.014).Increased programmed cell death protein 1(PD-1)abundance on CD3^(+)CD8^(low) T cells was observed from the 1st month of AHI but did not continue to be enhanced,while a significant T cell immunoreceptor with immunoglobulin and immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibition motif(ITIM)domains(TIGIT)abundance increase was observed in the 12th month of infection.Furthermore,increased PD-1 and TIGIT abundance on CD3^(+)CD8^(low) T cells was associated with a low CD4 T-cell count(PD-1:r=-0.456,P=0.043;TIGIT:r=-0.488,P=0.029)in CHI.Nonetheless,the nonincrease in PD-1 expression on classically activated CD3^(+)CD8^(low) T cells was inversely associated with HIV-1 viremia in the first month of AHI(r=-0.578,P=0.015).Notably,in the first month of AHI,few CD3^(+)CD8^(low) T cells,but comparable amounts of CD3^(+)CD8^(high) T cells,responded to Gag peptides.Then,weaker HIV-1-specific T-cell responses were induced in CD3^(+)CD8^(low) T cells than CD3^(+)CD8^(high) T cells at the 3rd and 12th months of AHI and in CHI.Conclusions:Our findings suggest that CD3^(+)CD8^(low) T cells play an anti-HIV role in the first month of infection due to their abundance but induce a weak HIV-1-specific immune response.Subsequently,CD3^(+)CD8^(low) T-cell number decreased gradually as infection persisted,and their anti-HIV functions were inferior to those of CD3^(+)CD8^(high) T cells.展开更多
基金This project was supported by a program of Science Project of Hubei Province (No.2003AA301C10).
文摘The changes of CD4^＋CD25^＋ regulatory T cells （CD4^＋CD25^＋ Treg） and Foxp3 mRNA in peripheral blood mononuclear cells （PBMCs） from patients with asthma were investigated in order to elucidate the possible roles of CD4^＋CD25^＋ Treg in the development of asthma. The peripheral blood samples were collected from 29 healthy controls （normal control group） and 78 patients with asthma which included 30 patients in exacerbation group, 25 patients in persistent group, and 23 patients in remission group. By using flow cytometry and RT-PCR, the CD4^＋CD25^＋ Treg ratio and Foxp3 mRNA in PBMCs were detected. The CD4^＋CD25^＋ Treg ratio and Foxp3 mRNA in PBMCs of exacerbation and persistent groups were lower than that of remission and normal control groups （P〈0.05）. Although the CD4^＋CD25^＋ Treg ratio and Foxp3 mRNA of remission group were also lower than that of normal control group, there was no significant difference between them （P〉0.05）. As compared with persistent group, exacerbation group had lower CD4^＋CD25^＋ Treg ratio and Foxp3 mRNA （P〈0.05）. It was indicated that the decrease of CD4^＋CD25^＋ Treg ratio and its function in PBMCs may be responsible for pathogenesis of asthma.
基金The study was supported by a grant from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.39928010)
文摘Objective: To investigate the expression and significance of caspase-3 protein in CD34^+ cells from cord blood (CB) during culture in vitro with different growth factors. Methods: RT-PCR, Western blot and flow cytometry techniques were used to detect the expression of caspase-3 in CD34^+ CB cells during culture in vitro. Results: Caspase-3 mRNA was constitutively expressed at a low level in freshly isolated CD34^+ cells. The expression of caspase-3 mRNA and protein was upregulated when these cellswere first expanded in suspension culture with growth factors for 3 days. However, only the 32 kDa inactive caspase-3 proenzyme was detected in the freshly isolated CD34^+ cells as well as during the first 3 days expansion with cytokines. With longer culture time in vitro, especially in the presence of the combination of IL-3, IL-6 and GM-CSF, caspase-3 was activated and a cleavage product of 20 kDa became detectable.Conclusion: Caspase-3 is involved in apoptosis of primitive CB CD34^+ cells during expansion in vitro.
文摘AIM： To investigate the changes of lymphocyte subpopulations, especially CD4^＋CD25^ T regulatory cells in Smad3^-/- mice. METHODS： Hematological changes and changes of lymphocyte subpopulations were detected in Smad3＂/- mice using cell counter and flow cytometry, respectively, and compared to their littermate controls. RESULTS： The numbers of neutrophils and lymphocytes in peripheral blood were significantly increased in Smad3^-/- mice compared to littermate controls. CD19^＋ expressing cells in blood and spleen, and CD8^＋ T cells in thymus were all markedly decreased in Smad3^-/- mice. More important, Smad3^-/- mice had an increased population of CD4^＋CD25^＋ T cells in peripheral lymphoid tissues, including thymus, spleen, and lymph nodes. CONCLUSION： These observations suggest that the changes of lymphocyte subpopulations might play a role in susceptibility to inflammation of Smad3^-/- mice.
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.81570016,81771676,81970027)。
文摘Objective:To explore the mechanism that miR-29b and B7H3 regulate the polarization of macrophages and thus affect the differentiation of CD4^(+)T.Methods:1.PBMC was extracted from peripheral blood mononuclear cells of children with asthma and normal children in the affiliated Children's Hospital of Soochow University,and RNA was extracted and reverse transcribed.The expression of miR-29b and B7H3mRNA was determined by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction(Q-PCR).The family history of asthma and history of allergic diseases were collected.2.THP-1 cells were induced into macrophages,miR-29b interference,miR-29b overexpression and normal control were induced by LV526,LV527 and NC virus infection.After 24 hours of culture,the cells were collected to detect the expression of STAT3 and B7H3 genes and proteins.3.It was verified that STAT3 was the target gene of miR-29b:after inoculating THP-1 cells and culturing with PMA with final concentration of 50ng/ml for 6 hours,the macrophages without PMA were cultured for 24 hours,then the macrophages infected by LV528,LV529 and NC virus were induced to form miR-29b interference,miR29b overexpression and normal control group.Luciferase analysis was performed at 48 hours to verify that STAT3 was the target gene of miR-29b.STAT3-3'UTR luciferase reporter gene plasmids were constructed and divided into three groups:"miR-29b+STAT3-3'UTR","miR-29b+STAT3-mut-3'UTR"and"miR-29b+luciferase empty load".4.Macrophages with different treatments were co-cultured with initial T cells for 3 days.The relative expressions of T-bet,GATA3 and ROR-γt were detected by Q-PCR.Result:1.The incidence of allergic disease in the acute attack group(68%)was higher than that in the other two groups(34.8%,33.3%),and the family history of asthma in the normal group(0%)was much lower than that in the other two groups(52%,60.9%).The difference was statistically significant(P<0.05).2.The expression of B7H3 in PBMC in acute attack group was higher than that in non-acute attack group and normal group.The expression of miR-29b in PBMC in normal group was significantly higher than that in non-acute attack group and acute attack group(P<0.0001).The expression of miR-29b in non-acute attack group was significantly higher than that in acute attack group(P=0.007).3.After silencing the expression of miR-29b,IL-4Rα,IL-4,IL-5,IL-13 and CD206 of macrophages increased significantly,while IFN-γdecreased,suggesting that miR-29b can promote the polarization of macrophages to M2.4.The overexpression of miR-29b,STAT3 and B7H3 gene and protein level in macrophages decreased,while the increase of miR-29b,STAT3 and B7H3 gene and protein expression was inhibited.5.There was a significant positive correlation between the expression of STAT3 and B7H3mRNA in macrophages(r=0.9737,P<0.0001).6.STAT3 is the target gene of miR-29b.7.Co-culture of macrophages with CD4^(+)T cells can promote the differentiation of primary T cells,namely Th 0 cells,into Th2,and the promoting effect of macrophages with downregulation of miR-29b is more obvious.Conclusion:The expression of miR-29b in PBMC of children with asthma is lower than that of normal children,while the expression of B7H3 is higher than that of normal children.It is speculated that miR-29b has a protective effect on children with asthma,while B7H3 aggravates the inflammatory response.Down-regulation of miR-29b,in macrophages can promote macrophages to M2 polarization,increase the expression of B7H3 and STAT3 in macrophages,make Th0 cells differentiate into Th2 cells,and aggravate the inflammatory response in patients with asthma.
基金Grant NSC93-2320-B41-010 and NSC93-2314-B-006-112 from the National Science Council, Taiwan, China
文摘AIM： To elucidate the distribution of CD4^＋CD25^＋ regulatory T cells （Tregs） in different lymphoid tissues and its local enhancement on tumor growth before and after depletion of CD4^＋CD25^＋ Tregs. METHODS： Female ICR mice were garaged with benzo[a]pyrene （BaP） to induce forestomach carcinoma. CD4^＋CD25^＋ Tregs were intraperitoneally depleted with monoclonal antibody PC61. These mice were divided into BaP-only, BaP ＋ IgG, BaP ＋ PC61, and control groups. The forestomach of mice was dissected for histological analysis, and tunnel test was performed for apoptosis of tumor cells. CD4^＋CD25^＋ Tregs were sorted from different lymphoid tissues and expression of Foxp3, IL-10, and chemokine receptors was analyzed by flow cytometry, semi-quantitative and veal-time polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS： The mice gavaged with only BaP showed increased forestomach papilloma and carcinoma at wk 16 and 32. The proportion of CD4^＋CD25^＋ Tregs was significantly higher in peri-stomach regional lymph nodes than in other lymphoid tissues. These CD4^＋CD25^＋ Tregs in regional lymph nodes expressed higher levels of Foxp3 and IL-10, enriched in the CD62L-subset, and CCR1 and CCR5 chemokine receptors. In mice gavaged with BaP ＋ PC61, the number of tumor nodules and tumor volume decreased significantly with massive infiltrating cells and apoptosis of tumor cells. In the draining regional lymph nodes, the number of CD4^＋CD25^＋ Tregs also decreased significantly. CONCLUSION： Inducible and activated CD4^＋CD25^＋ Tregs in the draining regional lymph nodes suppress host local immunity during tumor growth. Depletion of CD4^＋CD25^＋ Tregs can promote host local immunity to suppress tumor growth.
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China,Grant/Award Numbers:82071834,82271839,82302047Doctoral Start-up Foundation of Liaoning Province,Grant/Award Numbers:2023−BS-160Dalian Medical University Interdisciplinary Research Cooperation Project Team Funding,Grant/Award Numbers:JCHZ2023010.
文摘Background:Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease characterized by destructive polyarthritis, and abnormal T-B-cell interactions may contribute to its pathogenesis. This study aimed to investigate the characteristics and roles of CD4^(+) programmed death 1 (PD-1)^(+)Foxp3^(−) T cells in relation to the B-cell response in patients with RA. Methods:This study included 155 patients with RA and 36 age- and sex-matched healthy controls (HCs) from the Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University in China. Flow cytometry was used to assess the proportion and properties of peripheral CD4^PD-1^(−)Foxp3^(+) T cells, including their proliferation, activation, cytokine production, and capacity to induce B-cell differentiation. Results:The proportion of CD4^(+)PD-1^(+)Foxp3^(−)T cells was increased in patients with RA compared with HCs ([10.78 ± 0.60]% vs. [5.67 ± 0.40]%, p < 0.001), and this was positively associated with the B-cell response. Compared with CD4^PD-1 ^(+)Foxp3 ^(+) T cells, CD4^(+)PD-1^(+)Foxp3^(−)T cells from patients with RA exhibited increased expression of Ki67 ([6.52 ± 0.41]% vs. [3.87 ± 0.42]%, p < 0.01) and activation markers, produced higher levels of cytokines, and showed enhanced B-cell differentiation. Furthermore, anti-interleukin-6R antagonists decreased the proportion, activation, and cytokine production of CD4^(+)PD-1^(+)Foxp3^(−)T cells in vitro. The frequency of type 2 CD4^(+)PD-1^(+)Foxp3^(−)T cells was significantly higher in patients with RA than that in HCs ([37.27 ± 1.43]% vs. [29.05 ± 1.30]%, p < 0.05). Conclusions:Peripherally expanded CD4^(+)PD-1^(+)Foxp3^(−)T cells in patients with RA, which induced B-cell hyperactivity, may be inclined toward type 2 helper T cells. Our findings revealed a novel T-cell subset that contributes to B-cell hyperactivity in the pathogenesis of RA.
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32130039,31970831,81970541,31960151,and 31630038)the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2017YFA0104401)+3 种基金the Pinduoduo-China Agricultural University Research Fund(PC2023B01011)Frontiers Science Center for Molecular Design Breeding(MOE),Chinese Universities Scientific Fund(2022TC030 and 2021TC087)the Project for Extramural Scientists of State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology from China Agricultural University(2021SKLAB6-3 and 2021SKLAB6-4)the Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Ministry of Education(2020-39)。
文摘Efficient immune responses rely on the proper differentiation of CD8^(+)T cells into effector and memory cells.Here,we show a critical requirement of N^6-Methyladenosine(m^(6)A)methyltransferase Mettl3 during CD8^(+)T cell responses upon acute viral infection.Conditional deletion of Mettl3 in CD8^(+)T cells impairs effector expansion and terminal differentiation in an m^(6)A-dependent manner,subsequently affecting memory formation and the secondary response of CD8^(+)T cells.Our combined RNA-seq and m^(6)AmiCLIP-seq analyses reveal that Mettl3 deficiency broadly impacts the expression of cell cycle and transcriptional regulators.Remarkably,Mettl3 binds to the Tbx21 transcript and stabilizes it,promoting effector differentiation of CD8^(+)T cells.Moreover,ectopic expression of T-bet partially restores the defects in CD8^(+)T cell differentiation in the absence of Mettl3.Thus,our study highlights the role of Mettl3 in regulating multiple target genes in an m^(6)A-dependent manner and underscores the importance of m^(6)A modification during CD8^(+)T cell response.
基金supported in part by grants from the National Nature Science Foundation of China (No. 30670966)the National Basic Research Program (No. 2009CB521900)+1 种基金the Taishan Scholar Programthe Scientific Foundation of Innovative Research Team in Shandong University.
文摘T cell immunoglobulin- and mucin-domain-containing molecule-3 （Tim-3） has been reported to participate in the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases. However, whether Tim-3 is involved in hepatitis B virus （HBV） infection remains unknown. Here, we studied the expression and function of Tim-3 in a hydrodynamics-based mouse model of HBV infection. A significant increase of Tim-3 expression on hepatic T lymphocytes, especially on CD8^＋ T cells, was demonstrated in HBV model mice from day 7 to day 18. After Tim-3 knockdown by specific shRNAs, significantly increased IFN-γ production from hepatic CD8^＋ T cells in HBV model mice was observed. Very interestingly, we found Tim-3 expression on CD8^＋ T cells was higher in HBV model mice with higher serum anti-HBs production. Moreover, Tim-3 knockdown influenced anti-HBs production in vivo. Collectively, our data suggested that Tim-3 might act as a potent regulator of antiviral T-cell responses in HBV infection. Cellular ＆ Molecular Immunology.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.81822043,U1604286)Key Scientific Research Projects of Henan Higher Education Institutions(No.18A180033)
文摘PD-1 and CTLA-4 antibodies offer great hope for cancer immunotherapy.However,many patients are incapable of responding to PD-1 and CTLA-4 blockade and show low response rates due to insufficient immune activation.The combination of checkpoint blockers has been proposed to increase the response rates.Besides,antibody drugs have disadvantages such as inclined to cause immune-related adverse events and infiltration problems.In this study,we developed a cyclic peptide C25 by using Ph.D.-C7C phage display technology targeting LAG-3.As a result,C25 showed a relative high affinity with human LAG-3 protein and could effectively interfere the binding between LAG-3 and HLA-DR(MHC-II).Additionally,C25 could significantly stimulate CD8^+T cell activation in human PBMCs.The results also demonstrated that C25 could inhibit tumor growth of CT26,B16 and B 16-OVA bearing mice,and the infiltration of CD8^+T cells was significantly increased while FOXP3^+Tregs significantly decreased in the tumor site.Furthermore,the secretion of IFN-γby CD8^+T cells in spleen,draining lymph nodes and especially in the tumors was promoted.Simultaneously,we exploited T cells depletion models to study the anti-tumor mechanisms for C25 peptide,and the results combined with MTT assay confirmed that C25 exerted anti-tumor effects via CD8+T cells but not direct killing.In conclusion,cyclic peptide C25 provides a rationale for targeting the immune checkpoint,by blockade of LAG-3/HLA-DR interaction in order to enhance anti-tumor immunity,and C25 may provide an alternative for cancer immunotherapy besides antibody drugs.
基金by grants from the Chinese Academy of Sciences(KJCX2-YW-L08,YZ)the National Natural Science Foundation,China(30630060,YZ).
文摘CD4^(+)CD25^(+) T regulatory(Treg)cells are critical in inducing and maintaining immunological self-tolerance as well as transplant tolerance.The effect of low doses of whole-body irradiation(WBI)on CD41CD251Foxp31 Treg cells has not been determined.The proportion,phenotypes and function of CD4^(+)CD25^(+) Treg cells were investigated 0.5,5 and 15 days after euthymic,thymectomized or allogeneic bone marrow transplanted C57BL/6 mice received 2-Gy c-rays of WBI.The 2-Gy WBI significantly enhanced the ratios of CD41CD251 Treg cells and CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Foxp3^(+) Treg cells to CD41 T cells in peripheral blood,lymph nodes,spleens and thymi of mice.The CD41CD251 Treg cells of the WBI-treated mice showed immunosuppressive activities on the immune response of CD4^(+)CD25^(+) T effector cells to alloantigens or mitogens as efficiently as the control mice.Furthermore,2-Gy c-ray WBI significantly increased the percentage of CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Foxp3^(+) Treg cells in the periphery of either thymectomized mice or allogeneic bone marrow transplanted mice.The in vitro assay showed that ionizing irradiation induced less cell death in CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Foxp3^(+) Treg cells than in CD4^(+)CD25^(+) T cells.Thus,a low dose of WBI could significantly enhance the level of functional CD41CD251Foxp31 Treg cells in the periphery of naive or immunized mice.The enhanced proportion of CD41CD251Foxp31 Treg cells in the periphery by a low dose of WBI may make hosts more susceptible to immune tolerance induction.
基金Acknowledgements This work was supported by the grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China （30730054, 30572119, 30670937, 30971279, 30901363）, the Hi-tech Research and Development Program of China from Ministry of Science and Technology （2007AA02Z120）, the Ministry of Education （20060486008）, National Innovation Experiment Program for College Students （WU2007061）, Provincial Departrnent of Science and Technology of Hubei （2007ABC010）, China, and Chang Jiang Scholars Program from Ministry of Education, China and Li Ka Shing Foundation, Hong Kong, China （Chang Jiang Scholar T.J.）.
文摘CD8^＋ natural killer T （NKT） cells from EBV-associated tumour patients are quantitatively and functionally impaired. EBV-induced CD8^＋ NKT cells drive syngeneic T cells into a Thl-bias response to suppress EBV-associated malignancies. IL-4-biased CD4^＋ NKT cells do not affect either syngeneic T cell cytotoxicity or Th cytokine secretion. Circulating mDC1 cells from patients with EBV-associated malignancies impair the production of IFN-T by CD8^＋ NKT cells. In this study, we have established a human-thymus-SCID chimaera model to further investigate the underlying mechanism of EBV-induced CD8^＋ NKT cells in suppressing EBV-associated malignancies. In the human-thymus-SCID chimera, EBV-induced CD8^＋ NKT cells suppress EBV-associated malignancies in a manner dependent on the Thl-bias response and syngeneic CD3^＋ T cells. However, adoptive transfer with CD4^＋ NKT cells alone inhibits T cell immunity. Interestingly, CD4^＋ NKT cells themselves secrete high levels of IL-2, enhancing the persistence of adoptively transferred CD8^＋ NKT cells and T cells, thereby leading to a more pronounced T cell anti-tumour response in chimaeras co-transferred with CD4^＋ and CD8^＋ NKT cells. Thus, immune reconstitution with EBV-induced CD4^＋ and CD8^＋ NKT cells synergistically enhances T cell tumour immunity, providing a potential prophylactic and therapeutic treatment for EBV-associated malignancies.
基金grants from the National Basic Research Program of China(973 program,2010CB945301)National Natural Science Foundation for Key Programs(30630060).
文摘Complications arising from abnormal immune responses are the major causes of mortality and morbidity in diabetic patients.CD4^(+)CD25^(+)T regulatory cells(Tregs)play pivotal roles in controlling immune homeostasis,immunity and tolerance.The effect of hyperglycemia on CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Tregs has not yet been addressed.Here we used streptozotocin(STZ)-induced diabetic mice to study the effects of long-term hyperglycemia on CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Tregs in vivo.Four months after the onset of diabetes,the frequency of CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Foxp3^(+)T regulatory cells was significantly elevated in the spleen,peripheral blood lymphocytes(PBLs),peripheral lymph nodes(pLNs)and mesenteric LNs(mLNs).CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Tregs obtained from mice with diabetes displayed defective immunosuppressive functions and an activated/memory phenotype.Insulin administration rescued these changes in the CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Tregs of diabetic mice.The percentage of thymic CD4^(+)CD25^(+)naturally occurring Tregs(nTregs)and peripheral CD41Helios1Foxp31 nTregs were markedly enhanced in diabetic mice,indicating that thymic output contributed to the increased frequency of peripheral CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Tregs in diabetic mice.In an in vitro assay in which Tregs were induced fromCD4^(+)CD25^(+)T cells by transforming growth factor(TGF)-b,high glucose enhanced the efficiency of CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Foxp3^(+)T inducible Tregs(iTregs)induction.In addition,CD4^(+)CD25^(+)T cells from diabetic mice were more susceptible to CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Foxp3^(+)TiTreg differentiation than those cells from control mice.These data,together with the enhanced frequency of CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Foxp3^(+)T iTregs in the periphery of mice with diabetes,indicate that enhanced CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Foxp3^(+)T iTreg induction also contributes to a peripheral increase in CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Tregs in diabetic mice.Our data show that hyperglycemia may alter the frequency of CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Foxp3^(+)T Tregs in mice,which may result in late-state immune dysfunction in patients with diabetes.
基金supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(NSFC,81974303)the High-Level Public Health Specialized Talents Project of Beijing Municipal Health Commission(2022-2-018)+7 种基金the Ministry of Science and Technology of China(CPL-1233)the“Climbing the peak(Dengfeng)”Talent Training Program of Beijing Hospitals Authority(DFL20191701 and DFL20181701)the Beijing Health Technologies Promotion Program(BHTPP2020)Beijing Key Laboratory for HIV/AIDS Research(BZ0089 and BZ0373)Beijing Natural Science Foundation(7191004)Beijing Municipal Science and Technology Project(Z211100002521024)the Natural Science Foundation of Capital Medical University(PYZ21126)and the Scientific Research Project of Beijing Youan Hospital(CCMU-2020-BJYAYY-2020YC-01 and CCMU-2021-YNKTXF2021001).
文摘Background:Cluster of differentiation 8(CD8 T)cells play critical roles in eradicating human immunodeficiency virus(HIV)-1 infection,but little is known about the effects of T cells expressing CD8 at low levels(CD8^(low))or high levels(CD8^(high))on HIV-1 replication inhibition after HIV-1 invasion into individual.Methods:Nineteen patients who had been acutely infected with HIV-1(AHI)and 20 patients with chronic infection(CHI)for≥2 years were enrolled in this study to investigate the dynamics of the quantity,activation,and immune responses of CD3^(+)CD8^(low) T cells and their counterpart CD3^(+)CD8^(high) T cells at different stages of HIV-1 infection.Results:Compared with healthy donors,CD3^(+)CD8^(low) T cells expanded in HIV-1-infected individuals at different stages of infection.As HIV-1 infection progressed,CD3^(+)CD8^(low) T cells gradually decreased.Simultaneously,CD3^(+)CD8^(high) T cells was significantly reduced in the first month of AHI and then increased gradually as HIV-1 infection progressed.The classical activation of CD3^(+)CD8^(low) T cells was highest in the first month of AHI and then reduced as HIV-1 infection progressed and entered the chronic stage.Meanwhile,activated CD38^(-)HLA-DR^(+)CD8^(low) T cells did not increase in the first month of AHI,and the number of these cells was inversely associated with viral load(r=-0.664,P=0.004)but positively associated with the CD4 T-cell count(r=0.586,P=0.014).Increased programmed cell death protein 1(PD-1)abundance on CD3^(+)CD8^(low) T cells was observed from the 1st month of AHI but did not continue to be enhanced,while a significant T cell immunoreceptor with immunoglobulin and immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibition motif(ITIM)domains(TIGIT)abundance increase was observed in the 12th month of infection.Furthermore,increased PD-1 and TIGIT abundance on CD3^(+)CD8^(low) T cells was associated with a low CD4 T-cell count(PD-1:r=-0.456,P=0.043;TIGIT:r=-0.488,P=0.029)in CHI.Nonetheless,the nonincrease in PD-1 expression on classically activated CD3^(+)CD8^(low) T cells was inversely associated with HIV-1 viremia in the first month of AHI(r=-0.578,P=0.015).Notably,in the first month of AHI,few CD3^(+)CD8^(low) T cells,but comparable amounts of CD3^(+)CD8^(high) T cells,responded to Gag peptides.Then,weaker HIV-1-specific T-cell responses were induced in CD3^(+)CD8^(low) T cells than CD3^(+)CD8^(high) T cells at the 3rd and 12th months of AHI and in CHI.Conclusions:Our findings suggest that CD3^(+)CD8^(low) T cells play an anti-HIV role in the first month of infection due to their abundance but induce a weak HIV-1-specific immune response.Subsequently,CD3^(+)CD8^(low) T-cell number decreased gradually as infection persisted,and their anti-HIV functions were inferior to those of CD3^(+)CD8^(high) T cells.
