Understanding T Cell Responses in Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Studies have shown that T cells, particularly regulatory T cells (Tregs), can play an important role in determining whether inflammation develops in the intestine. The J. Lord Lab investigates how these cells and related mechanisms contribute to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in humans.

Researchers have extensively characterized T cells from the blood and intestinal tissue of people with and without IBD. This work has provided insights into the organization of the human adaptive mucosal immune system and allowed the lab to test proposed mechanisms of disease, including whether impaired Treg function contributes to IBD.

The lab has also focused on T cells that recognize outer membrane porin C, a protein produced by E. coli. By comparing these antigen-specific T cells in people with and without Crohn’s disease, researchers have identified differences that may provide new insights into how T cell responses to gut bacteria contribute to intestinal inflammation. Ultimately, this work could reveal immune mechanisms and potential biomarkers that deepen understanding of disease development and inform treatment.