Evaluation of lymphocyte activation gene3 (LAG-3) on regulatory T cells in patients with multiple sclerosis by intervention effect of fingolimod

Abstract

Background: Regulatory CD4+Foxp3+ T cells (Tregs) play an important role in the prevention of autoimmune disease. It is also suggested that in multiple sclerosis (MS), a central nervous system disease, an aberrant Treg function may play a role. Lymphocyte activation gene3 (LAG-3) as a surface marker of Treg cells with negative regulation of the immune system can effectively encounter with effector lymphocytes. In this study, we evaluated frequency of CD4+Foxp3+LAG-3+ T cells before and after treatment with Fingolimod. Methods: Blood samples was obtained from 20 patients with multiple sclerosis before and after 1 months of Fingolimod treatment, and from 12 age-matched healthy control subjects. Then pripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMCs) were isolated and the frequency of Treg cells expressing LAG-3 were determined by flowcytometry. Findings: The frequency of CD4+Foxp3+LAG3+ T cells in the peripheral blood of MS patients was increased when compared to baseline (P = 0.005). Conclusion: Our findings suggested that Fingolimod not only increases CD4+Foxp3+ Treg cells, but also is able to enhance expression of LAG-3 on their surface. This is a new finding for the Fingolimod on the immune system. © 2016, Journal of Isfahan Medical School. All rights reserved.