Positive Effects of Glucocorticoids on T Cell Function by Up-Regulation of IL-7 Receptor α

Feb 23, 2002Journal of immunology (Baltimore, Md. : 1950)

Glucocorticoids may improve T cell function by increasing IL-7 receptor levels

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Abstract

IL-7Ralpha was identified as a glucocorticoid-inducible gene in human immune cells.

The expression of IL-7Ralpha was confirmed at both mRNA and protein levels.
T cell receptor (TCR) signaling was found to decrease IL-7Ralpha expression.
The balance of signaling strength between glucocorticoids and TCRs influenced final IL-7Ralpha levels.
Up-regulation of IL-7Ralpha by glucocorticoids was linked to increased IL-7 signaling and function.
IL-7 reduced cell death at higher glucocorticoid concentrations, indicating increased sensitivity to IL-7.

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Despite the effects of glucocorticoids on immune function, relatively little is known about glucocorticoid-inducible genes and how their products may regulate lymphocyte function. Using DNA microarray technology to analyze gene expression in PBMC from healthy donors, we identified IL-7Ralpha as a glucocorticoid-inducible gene. This observation was confirmed at the mRNA and protein levels. Conversely, TCR signaling decreased IL-7Ralpha expression, and the relative strength of signaling between these two receptors determined the final IL-7Ralpha levels. The up-regulation of IL-7Ralpha by glucocorticoids was associated with enhanced IL-7-mediated signaling and function. Moreover, IL-7-mediated inhibition of apoptosis at increasing concentrations of glucocorticoids is consistent with enhanced cell sensitivity to IL-7 following glucocorticoid exposure. These observations provide a mechanism by which glucocorticoids may have a positive influence on T cell survival and function.

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Positive Effects of Glucocorticoids on T Cell Function by Up-Regulation of IL-7 Receptor α

Abstract

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