Title: The Role of Heme Oxygenase-1 in T Cell-Mediated Immunity: The All Encompassing Enzyme
Volume: 14
Issue: 5
Author(s): Z. W. Xia, W. W. Zhong, J. S. Meyrowitz and Z. L. Zhang
Affiliation:
Keywords:
Heme oxygenase-1, immunity, T cells
Abstract: Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is the rate-limiting enzyme of ferroheme metabolic pathway, which has the functions of antioxidation, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptosis and anti-smooth muscle hyperplasia. Furthermore, HO-1 exerts a protective action in the diseases mediated by effector T lymphocytes such as T helper (Th) 1, Th2 and Th17. In addition, regulatory T cells (Treg) control the activity of CD4+CD25- effector cells in a suppressive manner. Numerous studies indicate that the protective action of HO-1 in diseases is through CD4+CD25+ Treg. This paper will review the current research and understanding of HO-1s role in T cells-mediated immunoregulation.