Sample interview questions: Can you explain your knowledge of the role of regulatory T cells in immune system regulation?
Sample answer:
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Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are a specialized subset of T cells that play a critical role in maintaining immune tolerance and preventing excessive immune responses. They are characterized by the expression of the transcription factor Foxp3, which is essential for their development and function.
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Tregs suppress immune responses through various mechanisms, including:
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Direct cell-cell contact: Tregs can directly interact with other immune cells, such as effector T cells and dendritic cells, and suppress their activation and proliferation. This interaction is mediated by inhibitory molecules expressed on Tregs, such as cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4) and programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1).
- Cytokine production: Tregs produce immunosuppressive cytokines, such as interleukin-10 (IL-10) and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), which inhibit the activation and proliferation of other immune cells.
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Metabolic disruption: Tregs can disrupt the metabolism of other immune cells, leading to their anergy or apoptosis. This is achieved through the expression of molecules such as CD25, which binds to interleukin-2 (IL-2) and deprives other immune cells of this essential growth factor.
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Tregs are essential for maintaining immune homeostasis and preventing autoimmune diseases. In the absence of Tregs, the immune system can become overactive and attack the body’s own tissues, leading to autoimmune disorders such as type 1 diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis.
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Tregs are also involved in regulating imm… Read full answer