Researchers Target Altered T Cell Metabolism in SLE to Reverse Lupus Immuno-Phenotype

“Our study provides possible mechanisms by which Met and 2DG reversed immuno-phenotypes in vivo. Met regulates cellular metabolism through complex mechanisms, including the inhibition of the mitochondrial respiratory chain complex I. Here, the Met + 2DG treatment decreased T cell mitochondrial oxygen consumption, as well as mTORC1 [mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1] signaling in both the TC and NZB/W models,” write the authors in their discussion.

They concluded their paper by suggesting that new therapies that target T cell metabolism may be useful for the treatment of SLE.

Lara C. Pullen, PhD, is a medical writer based in the Chicago area.

Reference

1. Yin Y, Choi SC, Xu Z, et al. Normalization of CD4+ T cell metabolism reverses lupus. Sci Transl Med. 2015 Feb 11;7(274):274ra18. doi: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aaa0835