Therapeutic potential of targeting the Th17/Treg axis in autoimmune disorders

Abstract

A disruption of the crucial balance between regulatory T-cells (Tregs) and Th17-cells was recently implicated in various autoimmune disorders. Tregs are responsible for the maintenance of self-Tolerance, thus inhibiting autoimmunity, whereas pro-inflammatory Th17-cells contribute to the induction and propagation of inflammation. Distortion of the Th17/Treg balance favoring the pro-inflammatory Th17 side is hence suspected to contribute to exacerbation of autoimmune disorders. This review aims to summarize recent data and advances in targeted therapeutic modification of the Th17/Treg-balance, as well as information on the efficacy of candidate therapeutics with respect to the treatment of autoimmune diseases.