Effector memory regulatory T-cell expansion marks a pivotal point of immune escape in myelodysplastic syndromes

Abstract

Myleodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are pre-malignant hematopoietic diseases that can progress to acute myeloid leukemia (AML) progression in conjunction with changes in immune function. In this model of leukemia evolution, the expansion of immunosuppressive regulatory T cells (Tregs) contributes to immune escape. Here, we discuss the importance of Tregmemory phenotype switching as a poor prognostic indicator in MDS. © 2013 Landes Bioscience.