Protein kinase C-θ mediates negative feedback on regulatory T cell function

Abstract

T cell receptor (TCR)-dependent regulatory T cell (Treg) activity controls effector T cell (Teff) function and is inhibited by the inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor-a (TNF-a Protein kinase C-θ (PKC-θ) recruitment to the immunological synapse is required for full Teff activation. In contrast, PKC-6 was sequestered away from the Treg immunological synapse. Furthermore, PKC-θ blockade enhanced Treg function, demonstrating PKC-6 inhibits T reg-mediated suppression. Inhibition of PKC-6 protected T reg from inactivation by TNF-a, restored activity of defective T reg from rheumatoid arthritis patients, and enhanced protection of mice from inflammatory colitis. Treg freed of PKC-6-mediated inhibition can function in the presence of inflammatory cytokines and thus have therapeutic potential in control of inflammatory diseases.