Question

All of the following statements refer to regulatory T cells except ____?

1) they produce anti-inflammatory cytokines
2) they express elevated levels of CD25
3) they express FoxP3
4) they enhance the production of new effector T cells
5) they suppress the function of existing T cells

Answer 1

Regulatory T cells function to suppress the function of other T cells and prevent excessive immune responses. They produce anti-inflammatory cytokines, express elevated levels of CD25, and express the transcription factor FoxP3. However, they do not enhance the production of new effector T cells.

Step-by-step explanation:

Regulatory T cells, or suppressor T cells, are a type of T cell that play a role in suppressing the function of other T cells and preventing undesirable immune responses. Here is a breakdown of the statements provided:

1. They produce anti-inflammatory cytokines: This statement is true. Regulatory T cells produce cytokines that have anti-inflammatory effects and help suppress immune responses.
2. They express elevated levels of CD25: This statement is true. Regulatory T cells express high levels of CD25, which is a marker for activated T cells.
3. They express FoxP3: This statement is true. Regulatory T cells express the transcription factor FoxP3, which is necessary for their suppressive function.
4. They enhance the production of new effector T cells: This statement is false. Regulatory T cells suppress the function of existing T cells, rather than enhancing their production.
5. They suppress the function of existing T cells: This statement is true. Regulatory T cells suppress the function of existing T cells to prevent excessive immune responses and maintain immune balance.