Published online before print May 21, 2008
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Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
1 Correspondence: Department of Medicine/Gastroeneterology Division, University of Massachusetts Medical School, LRB 270J, 364 Plantation St., Worcester, MA 01605, USA. E-mail: angela.dolganiuc{at}umassmed.edu
ABSTRACT
The mechanism behind the apparent lack of effective antiviral immune response in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is poorly understood. Although multiple levels of abnormalities have been identified in innate and adaptive immunity, it remains unclear if any of the subpopulations of T cells with regulatory capacity (Tregs) contribute to the induction and maintenance of HCV persistence. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge about Tregs as they relate to HCV infection.
Key Words: Tr1 Th3 CD8+ Tregs FoxP3 IL-10 TGF-β liver