Regulatory T Cells in Colorectal Cancer

Abstract

One of the essential protection mechanisms of immune system is Treg cells which play an important role in maintenance of immune homeostasis. However, they may also inhibit immune functions against tumor cells. It has been reported that Treg cells are increased in patients suffering from different types of cancer. Increased number of Treg cells has been shown in tumor lymph nodes, peripheral blood, and tumor sites of patient with Colorectal Cancer (CRC). However, it is clear that Treg cells are increased in CRC patients, but the prognostic impact of Treg cells in CRC patients is a matter of debate. It seems that the function of these cells depend on the stage of CRC development. The aim of the present review article is to make an attempt to provide vision on the role of Treg in CRC. Finally, the potential approaches for the treatment of CRC are discussed.