CD4-regulatory cells in COPD patients

Smyth, LJC; Starkey, C; Vestbo, J; Singh, D

Abstract

Background: The numbers of airway CD8 and B lymphocytes are increased in COPD patients, suggesting an autoimmune process. CD4-regulatory T cells control autoimmunity but have not been studied in patients with COPD.

Objective: To compare T-regulatory cell numbers in the BAL from COPD patients, smokers with normal lung function, and healthy nonsmokers (HNS).

Methods: BAL and peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) samples were obtained from 26 COPD patients, 19 smokers, and 8 HNS. Flow cytometry was performed for regulatory phenotypic markers.

Results: COPD patients had increased BAL CD8 numbers compared to smokers and HNS. CD4 numbers were similar between groups. There was increased BAL CD4CD25(bright) expression in smokers (median 28.8%) and COPD patients (median 23.1%) compared to HNS (median 0%). Increased FoxP3 expression was confirmed in BAL CD4CD25(bright) cells. BAL CD4CD25 cells expressed less CD27 compared to PBMCs, suggesting weaker functional regulatory ability.

Clinical implications: Chronic cigarette smoke exposure up-regulates airway CD4 regulatory cell numbers. Their function may be to control pulmonary inflammation.

Citation

Smyth, L., Starkey, C., Vestbo, J., & Singh, D. (2007). CD4-regulatory cells in COPD patients. Chest, 132(1), 156-163. https://doi.org/10.1378/chest.07-0083

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Publication Date: Jan 1, 2007
• Deposit Date: Dec 23, 2010
• Journal: Chest
• Print ISSN: 0012-3692
• Publisher: Elsevier
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 132
• Issue: 1
• Pages: 156-163
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1378/chest.07-0083
• Publisher URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1378/chest.07-0083