The role of regulatory T cells in vitiligo and therapeutic advances: a mini-review.

Background: Regulatory T cells (Tregs) play vital roles in controlling immune reactions and maintaining immune tolerance in the body. The targeted destruction of epidermal melanocytes by activated CD8T cells is a key event in the development of vitiligo. However, Tregs may exert immunosuppressive effects on CD8T cells, which could be beneficial in treating vitiligo.

Methods: A comprehensive search of PubMed and Web of Science was conducted to gather information on Tregs and vitiligo.

Results: In vitiligo, there is a decrease in Treg numbers and impaired Treg functions, along with potential damage to Treg-related signaling pathways. Increasing Treg numbers and enhancing Treg function could lead to immunosuppressive effects on CD8T cells. Recent research progress on Tregs in vitiligo has been summarized, highlighting various Treg-related therapies being investigated for clinical use. The current status of Treg-related therapeutic strategies and potential future directions for vitiligo treatment are also discussed.

Conclusions: A deeper understanding of Tregs will be crucial for advancing Treg-related drug discovery and treatment development in vitiligo.