The Unexpected Influence of Regulatory T Cells on Mood and Memory

Regulatory T cells (Tregs), which are responsible for immune system regulation, may also play a role in mood stabilization and cognitive function. Decreased expression of the transcription factor Foxp3, which controls Tregs, has been linked to major depressive disorders. Depleting Tregs in mice led to increased anxiety and depressive behaviors, which were reversed when Foxp3-expressing cells were restored. Additionally, mice with depleted Tregs showed cognitive impairments similar to those seen in Alzheimer's disease. This suggests a potential connection between immune responses, mood disorders, and cognitive decline.