However, T follicular regulatory (Tfr) cells suppress B cell activation. Since changes in the number and functions of Tfr cells lead to dysregulated GC reaction and autoantibody response, targeting Tfr cells may benefit the treatment of autoimmune diseases.

This article summarizes the advances in several aspects of Tfr cell biology, with special focus on definition and phenotype, development and differentiation, regulatory factors, functions, and interactions with T/B cells and molecules involved in performance and regulation of Tfr function.

Tfr cells develop through a multistep process requiring migration through different compartments of lymphoid tissues. This review discusses the ontogeny and physiology of Tfr cells, their distribution within distinct anatomic compartments, and their function.

Apr 21, 2017 · Immunization leads to the formation of germinal centres (GCs) that contain both T follicular helper (Tfh) and T follicular regulatory (Tfr) cells. Whether T-cell receptor (TCR) specificity...

Jan 28, 2016 · Here we show that Tfr cells can be specific for the immunizing antigen, irrespective of whether it is a self- or foreign antigen. We show that, in addition to developing from thymic derived Treg...

Mar 5, 2024 · Tfr cells specific for BDA can veto the triggering of B cell-directed autoreactivity, suppressing the emergence of spontaneous GC and GC autoreactivity. Additionally, the immune system...

Apr 7, 2023 · Specialized Tfr populations exert distinct functions. The most numerous Tfr cells within the B cell follicle and GC are nTfr cells, derived from T reg cells. These cells are not only abundant in the mantle but also present in the GC.

Jun 10, 2021 · T follicular regulatory cells, or Tfr cells, are a discernable population of regulatory T (Treg) cells that migrate to the B cell follicle and germinal center (GC) upon immune challenge.

Currently Tfr cells are defined as FoxP3+ CD4+ T cells that express at least some levels of the chemokine receptor CXCR5, have a distinct transcriptional program consistent with a Tfr cell, can gain access to B cell follicles, and are capable of modulating B cell responses.

Herein, we briefly introduce the phenotype, differentiation, and function of Tfh and Tfr cells, and review their potential roles in autoimmune diseases. In addition, we discuss perspectives to develop novel therapies targeting Tfh/Tfr balance.