Tuning mTOR activity for immune balance

J Clin Invest. 2013 Dec;123(12):5001-4. doi: 10.1172/JCI73202. Epub 2013 Nov 25.

Abstract

The mTOR pathway orchestrates diverse physiological processes, including T cell functions and fate decisions; however, the regulation of mTOR-dependent T cell differentiation remains elusive. In this issue, Park et al. examine the role of TSC1, an mTOR signaling regulator, in T cell differentiation and the balance between T cell-mediated immunity and tolerance. They found that enhanced mTOR activity in Tsc1-deficient T cells promotes Th1 and Th17 differentiation, leading to increased intestinal inflammation in murine colitis. Tsc1-deficient Tregs had impaired suppressive activity in inflammatory conditions. These defects were associated with the acquisition of effector-like phenotypes and could be further exacerbated by concomitant loss of transcription factor Foxo3. This study highlights that TSC1-mediated control of mTOR activity impinges on the balance between immunity and tolerance by dictating effector and regulatory T cell responses.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Comment

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Colitis / immunology*
  • T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory / immunology*
  • Th1 Cells / immunology*
  • Th17 Cells / immunology*
  • Tuberous Sclerosis Complex 1 Protein
  • Tumor Suppressor Proteins / physiology*

Substances

  • Tuberous Sclerosis Complex 1 Protein
  • Tumor Suppressor Proteins