Conversion and function of regulatory T cells in the periphery: the role of the RelB transcription factor (2009-2011)

There is limited understanding of the molecular mechanisms regulating immune tolerance, or protection from autoimmune diseases, like childhood diabetes. This proposal studies RelB-deficient mice. They present a novel opportunity to study tolerance and autoimmune disease development, as we have discovered that autoimmunity in these mice is correctable by treatment with dendritic cells expressing RelB. This may be relevant to treatment of patients with certain forms of autoimmune disease.