This study is focussed on the role of cAMP-dependent transcriptional repressor ICER in regulatory T cell function. Using a conditional knockout model, Treg development, suppressive function, stability, and metabolic phenotype were examined to gain further understanding of the role of cAMP-dependent signalling in regulatory T cells.
ABSTRACT
Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are essential for immune tolerance, with cAMP metabolism central to their suppressive function. Inducible cAMP early repressor (ICER) is a negative regulator of cAMP signalling. However, its role in Treg biology is not fully understood. Here we generated Foxp3-specific ICER knockout mice to assess ICER’s function in Tregs. We found that ICER deficiency does not impair Treg development or suppression of effector T cell proliferation under homeostatic conditions. However, ICER-deficient Tregs display enhanced Foxp3 stability, increased glycolysis and proliferation but exhibit impaired suppression of IFN-γ production by effector T cells. In a dextran sodium sulphate-induced colitis model, loss of ICER in Tregs led to aggravated intestinal inflammation and tissue damage, without, however, a marked effect on gross disease parameters. These results identify ICER as a context-dependent modulator of Treg metabolism and inflammatory cytokine control, highlighting its potential role in regulating immune responses during inflammation.