The
regulatory T cells (
Tregs), formerly known as
suppressor T cells, are a subpopulation of
T cells which modulate the
immune system, maintain
tolerance to self-antigens, and abrogate autoimmune disease. These cells generally suppress or downregulate induction and proliferation of effector T cells. Additional regulatory T cells known as
Treg17 cells have recently been identified. Mouse models have suggested that modulation of Tregs can treat
autoimmune disease and
cancer, and facilitate
organ transplantation.