PGI2 as a regulator of CD4+ subset differentiation and function

Prostaglandin (PG)I2 has important regulatory functions on the innate and adaptive immune systems. Recent experimental evidence reveals that PGI2 modulates the development and function of CD4+ T cells subsets, including Th1, Th2, and Th17 cell responses. In vitro and in vivo studies support that PGI2 generally has an inhibitory effect on Th1 and Th2 activation, differentiation, and cytokine production. In contrast, PGI2 seems to enhance Th17-favoring polarization conditions, resulting in Th17 cytokine production. Therefore, PGI2 may either promote or inhibit individual CD4+ cell subsets and impact adaptive immune responses.

► PGI2 has important regulatory functions on the innate and adaptive immune systems. ► PGI2 inhibits CD4+ Th1 differentiation by decreasing dendritic cell expression of IL-12. ► PGI2 inhibits CD4+ Th2 differentiation in an antigen-specific manner. ► PGI2 promotes CD4+ Th17 differentiation and function by increasing the ratio of IL-23 to IL-12 produced by dendritic cells.