CTLA-4, the immune system and Type 1
Is CTLA-4-dependent T-reg function compromised in autoimmune diabetes?
- Dr Lucy Walker of the University of Birmingham
- £207,509; Three-year project grant
- September 2012 – September 2015
Background to project
Regulatory T cells (T-reg cells) are white blood cells that usually keep the immune system in check and prevent it from attacking the body’s own tissues. In people with Type 1 diabetes, these cells malfunction and allow the body’s immune system to attack and destroy insulin-producing islet cells in the pancreas.
Evidence suggests that a T-reg protein known as CTLA-4 is involved and researchers at the University of Birmingham have discovered that it works like a tiny ‘vacuum cleaner’ to keep the immune system under control by removing proteins that might stimulate it.
Project aims
Dr Lucy Walker and her team aim to find out whether the ‘hoover’ function of CTLA-4 (or the pathways that influence it) is working correctly in people with Type 1 diabetes or if its malfunction is limiting the effective regulation of the immune system. They will examine the movement of CTLA-4 within immune cells and attempt to alleviate diabetes in mice by modifying its function.
Potential benefit to people with diabetes
If this study can demonstrate that the function of CTLA-4 is different in people with Type 1, this could help change our understanding of diabetes and afford new possibilities for treatment and new ways to improve existing drugs.