Regulatorische T-Zellen veränderten sich bei Kindern mit Autismus, was die mögliche Rolle immunsuppressiver Zellen bei Neuroinflammation und Verhalten verdeutlicht. Regulatorische T-Zellen fungieren als „Bremsen“ des Immunsystems und beruhigen Entzündungen, um eine Überreaktion zu verhindern. Bei autistischen Personen sind sie häufig verringert.

Regulatory T cells altered in children with autism

Two new studies highlight possible role of immunosuppressive cells on neuroinflammation and behavior

Two new studies from the UC Davis MIND Institute examined regulatory T cells (Tregs) and their potential role in neuroinflammation and behavioral changes associated with autism.

Tregs act as immune system „brakes,“ calming inflammation to prevent overreaction. They are often decreased in autistic individuals.

Previous studies have found higher levels of inflammatory immune cells in the blood, brain and gastrointestinal tissues of people with autism. These increased inflammatory responses are often linked to greater behavioral support needs, while higher levels of Tregs are associated with improved behavioral outcomes. Despite this, Tregs have not been well studied in autistic children, and their potential as a therapeutic target remains largely unexplored.

The researchers found children with autism showed altered Tregs. Compared to typically developing children, children with autism had:

A lower number of Tregs. Tregs were generally reduced in autistic children but decreases in specific Treg populations differed depending on whether a child had GI issues. Children with autism and GI issues had fewer Tregs capable of producing anti-inflammatory proteins. Children without GI issues had fewer Tregs capable of dividing after activation.

Differentially expressed genes. Tregs from autistic children had 213 differentially expressed genes, with 171 upregulated (increased output) and 42 downregulated (decreased output).

For those interested, here’s the link to the peer reviewed journal article:

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12974-026-03701-w