SHIP-1 regulates the differentiation and function of Tregs via inhibiting mTORC1 activity

Abstract

Cell metabolism is crucial for orchestrating the differentiation and function of regulatory T cells (Tregs). However, the underlying mechanism that coordinates cell metabolism to regulate Treg activity is not completely understood. As a pivotal molecule in lipid metabolism, the role of SHIP-1 in Tregs remains unknown. In this study, we found SHIP-1 Treg KO mice (SHIP-1 specifically deleted in regulatory T cells) had severe autoimmunity with increased Tregs in the thymus and disrupted peripheral T cell homeostasis. Mechanistically, CD4Cre Ship-1flox/flox mice were found to have increased Treg precursors and SHIP-1 KO Tregs had reduced migration and stability, which caused decreased Tregs in the spleen. Additionally, the suppressive function of Tregs from SHIP-1 KO mice was diminished, along with their promotion of anti-tumor immunity. Interestingly, the PI3K-mTORC1, but not mTORC2, signaling axis was enhanced in SHIP-1 KO Tregs. In vivo treatment of SHIP-1 Treg KO mice with rapamycin rescued the abnormal Treg percentages and peripheral T cell homeostasis, as well as Treg suppressive function. Furthermore, the treatment of wild-type mice with SHIP-1 inhibitor enhanced anti-tumor activity. Our study highlights the SHIP-1-PI3K-mTORC1 axis that regulates Treg differentiation and function, and it is a potential target for cancer treatment.