Increase of CD4(+)CD25(+) T cells in Smad3(-/-) mice.

摘要

AIM: To investigate the changes of lymphocyte subpopulations, especially CD4(+)CD25(+) T regulatory cells in Smad3(-/-) mice. METHODS: Hematological changes and changes of lymphocyte subpopulations were detected in Smad3(-/-) mice using cell counter and flow cytometry, respectively, and compared to their littermate controls. RESULTS: The numbers of neutrophils and lymphocytes in peripheral blood were significantly increased in Smad3(-/-) mice compared to littermate controls. CD19(+) expressing cells in blood and spleen, and CD8(+) T cells in thymus were all markedly decreased in Smad3(-/-) mice. More important, Smad3(-/-) mice had an increased population of CD4(+)CD25(+) T cells in peripheral lymphoid tissues, including thymus, spleen, and lymph nodes. CONCLUSION: These observations suggest that the changes of lymphocyte subpopulations might play a role in susceptibility to inflammation of Smad3(-/-) mice.