A new study led by researchers at Queen Mary University of London, published in the journal Nature Metabolism, has uncovered a receptor that plays a crucial role in enabling killer T lymphocytes to function effectively.
CD8 T cell with Glut2 (red) expression on its cell surface.
These findings could have significant implications for the management of autoimmune conditions and transplant rejection.
Professor Federica Marelli-Berg, study author and BHF Professor of Cardiovascular Immunology at Queen Mary University of London said: "We have discovered that the glucose transporter 2 (Glut2) is essential for CD8+ T cell responses. Until now, Glut2 was not known to be expressed by T lymphocytes, and it was not believed to have a selective function within the CD8+ subset.”
CD8+ T cells, often referred to as killer T cells, are vital components of the immune system responsible for identifying and destroying infected or abnormal cells. The newfound importance of Glut2 in these cells has added an unexpected layer of complexity to our understanding of immune response regulation.
Professor Marelli-Berg further explains: "The study identifies a novel metabolic checkpoint for the regulation of effector immune responses. This offers potential benefits for various aspects of human health, management of autoimmune disorders and transplant rejection.”
By targeting Glut2, researchers could potentially develop more effective treatments for these debilitating disorders.
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