Th17 and Treg cells in COPD patients Exposed to Inorganic Dust

Abstract

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive disorder characterized by airflow limitation. Alongside smoking, occupational exposure is an important risk factor for COPD. Especially coal miner were known for risk occupations because higher silica content in dusts. A disorder in immune regulation contributing to the pathogenesis of COPD has been suggested. In particular, The role of T helper 17 (Th17) and Regulatory T (Treg) cells are increasingly investigated. Treg cells are subset of T lymphocytes, which may promote self-immune tolerance and maintenance of immune balance. Th17 cells are a subset of T lymphocytes that play crucial roles in pro-inflammatory inflammation and autoimmune diseases. This study is aimed at determining the frequency of circulating Th17 and Treg cells in patients with COPD exposed to inorganic dusts. Cell surface molecule expressions were ascertained using fluorochrome-conjugated mAbs by flow cytometer (FC500, Beckman Coulter). COPD diagnosis was established according to the history of the exposure periods to inorganic dusts, symptoms and pulmonary function tests with FEV1/FVC post bronchodilator lower then 70%, according to the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) guidelines. Compared to non COPD, the level of Treg cells and it’s cytokine, TGF-β1 have significant difference in patients with COPD. In addition, There are an imbalance of Treg/Th17 ratio between non COPD and COPD. We can assume that Treg and Th17 cells play an important role in the pathogenesis of COPD. This study will be an Fundamental data for the immunopathology study of COPD patients exposed to inorganic dust.