Response to self antigen imprints regulatory memory in tissues

Thymus-derived regulatory T cells are activated by recognition of peripheral self antigen, persist in the target tissue on cessation of antigen exposure, and respond to re-exposure to self antigen with enhanced functional activity. Many autoimmune diseases become less severe with repeated bouts, or even resolve. A mechanism contributing to this phenomenon, termed regulatory memory, has now been identified. In an in vivo mouse model,...