The proportion and changes of CD4^+CD25^high regulatory T cells (Trs) in peripheral blood of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients were analyzed and their clinical significance explored. The peripheral bloo...The proportion and changes of CD4^+CD25^high regulatory T cells (Trs) in peripheral blood of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients were analyzed and their clinical significance explored. The peripheral blood was collected from 61 patients with NSCLC and 15 healthy controls. By using monoclonal antibodies, the blood samples were evaluated with the flow cytometry for lymphocyte subsets (CD3^+, CD4^+ and CD8^+) and CD4^+CD25^high Tr cells. The results showed that the proportion of CD4^+CD25^high Tr cells in NSCLC group was significantly higher than in control group [(4.36 ±2.07) % vs (2.04±1.03) %, P〈0.01]. The proportion of CD4^+CD25^ high Tr cells in late stage was higher than that in early stage [stages Ⅰ +Ⅱ (2.264±0.6) %; stage Ⅲ(3.284± 1.38) %; stage IV (6.06 4±4.08) %] (P〈0.05). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis revealed that the prognosis of the patients who had higher proportion of CD4^+CD25^high Tr cells in peripheral blood was worse (P=0.0026). In conclusion, the relative increase in CD4^+CD25^high Tr cells in peripheral blood may be related to im- munosuppression and tumor progression in patients with NSCLC. This finding suggests that CD4^+CD25^high Tr cells in peripheral blood of NSCLC may be positive for prognosis analysis. The use of depletion of the CD4^+CD25^high Tr cell therapy to treat NSCLC patients may be an effective strategy.展开更多
Objective Age-related increment of the prevalence of CD4^+CD25^+ regulatory T (Treg) cells were described controversially, and whether such changes explain immune dysfunction in the elderly is still unclear. The a...Objective Age-related increment of the prevalence of CD4^+CD25^+ regulatory T (Treg) cells were described controversially, and whether such changes explain immune dysfunction in the elderly is still unclear. The aim of this systematic review is to evaluate the role of the Tregs in immunosenescence. Methods Medline and manual searches were performed to identify all published epidemiological and animal studies investigating the efficacy of the association between immunosenescence and Treg cells. Results It was founded that the frequency, phenotypic characteristics, and number/function of Tregs were altered significantly with aging. Medical conditions in individuals with advanced ageas well as apoptosis intensity of Treg cells had an impact on the accumulation of Tregs which in turn could deteriorate cytotoxic activity of CD8+ T and NK cells and production of IL-2. The range of immune cells that could be suppressed by Treg cells was quite wide and covered CD4^+CD25^+ T cells, NK cells, dendritic cells and even monocytes. These changes were observed both in humans and experimental animals. Besides, it was believed that frequency of Tregs increased with age and was accompanied by intensified suppressive activity for Tregs in patients, for example, with Alzheimer disease (AD) and Parkinson disease (PD). The impaired condition of CD4+ T cells, so-called immunosenescence, rendered transplant recipients less responsive to an allogeneic kidney graft, an effect that was limited to transplant recipients who were aged over 60 years. Conclusions Treg cells are associated with immunosenescence. All these changes contribute to the aging-related decline of immune responses and lead to the higher risk of immune-mediated diseases, cancer or infections in aged individuals.展开更多
The changes of CD4^+CD25^+ regulatory T cells (CD4^+CD25^+ Treg) and Foxp3 mRNA in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from patients with asthma were investigated in order to elucidate the possible role...The changes of CD4^+CD25^+ regulatory T cells (CD4^+CD25^+ Treg) and Foxp3 mRNA in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from patients with asthma were investigated in order to elucidate the possible roles of CD4^+CD25^+ Treg in the development of asthma. The peripheral blood samples were collected from 29 healthy controls (normal control group) and 78 patients with asthma which included 30 patients in exacerbation group, 25 patients in persistent group, and 23 patients in remission group. By using flow cytometry and RT-PCR, the CD4^+CD25^+ Treg ratio and Foxp3 mRNA in PBMCs were detected. The CD4^+CD25^+ Treg ratio and Foxp3 mRNA in PBMCs of exacerbation and persistent groups were lower than that of remission and normal control groups (P〈0.05). Although the CD4^+CD25^+ Treg ratio and Foxp3 mRNA of remission group were also lower than that of normal control group, there was no significant difference between them (P〉0.05). As compared with persistent group, exacerbation group had lower CD4^+CD25^+ Treg ratio and Foxp3 mRNA (P〈0.05). It was indicated that the decrease of CD4^+CD25^+ Treg ratio and its function in PBMCs may be responsible for pathogenesis of asthma.展开更多
The function of CD4+CD25+ regulatory T lymphocytes (Treg) in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and the effects of atorvastatin were investigated. Forty-eight patients with ACS were randomly divided int...The function of CD4+CD25+ regulatory T lymphocytes (Treg) in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and the effects of atorvastatin were investigated. Forty-eight patients with ACS were randomly divided into two groups: group C receiving conventional therapy (n=24), and group C+A receiving conventional therapy+atorvastatin (10 mg/day, n=24). T lymphocytes from ACS patients (before and 2 weeks after the treatment) or 18 healthy subjects were separated and the flow cytometry was used to measure the percentage of Treg. The inhibitory ability of Treg on effector T cells was determined by mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR). ELISA was used to measure the serum levels of cytokines (IL-10, TGF-β1 and IFN-γ) before and after treatment. The results showed that as compared with normal control group, Treg percentage was decreased significantly (P〈0.01), the inhibitory ability of Treg on the T lymphocytes proliferation was reduced (P〈0.01), IFN-γ levels were increased and IL-10 and TGF-β1 levels were lowered in ACS patients. After treatment with atorvastatin, Treg percentage and the inhibitory ability of Treg on T lymphocytes proliferation were significantly increased in ACS patients. Serum IFN-γ was decreased significantly, while IL-10 and TGF-β1 were elevated significantly as compared with the non-atorvastatin group. The number of Treg was positively correlated with serum TGF-β1, but negatively with serum IFN-γ and CRP. It was concluded that ACS was associated with decreased number and defected function of Treg, which may play an important role in initiating immune-inflammatory response in ACS. The inhibitory effects of atorvastatin on inflammation in ACS may be due to its beneficial effects on Treg and restoration of immune homeostasis.展开更多
AIM: To elucidate the distribution of CD4^+CD25^+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) in different lymphoid tissues and its local enhancement on tumor growth before and after depletion of CD4^+CD25^+ Tregs. METHODS: Fe...AIM: To elucidate the distribution of CD4^+CD25^+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) in different lymphoid tissues and its local enhancement on tumor growth before and after depletion of CD4^+CD25^+ Tregs. METHODS: Female ICR mice were garaged with benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) to induce forestomach carcinoma. CD4^+CD25^+ Tregs were intraperitoneally depleted with monoclonal antibody PC61. These mice were divided into BaP-only, BaP + IgG, BaP + PC61, and control groups. The forestomach of mice was dissected for histological analysis, and tunnel test was performed for apoptosis of tumor cells. CD4^+CD25^+ Tregs were sorted from different lymphoid tissues and expression of Foxp3, IL-10, and chemokine receptors was analyzed by flow cytometry, semi-quantitative and veal-time polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS: The mice gavaged with only BaP showed increased forestomach papilloma and carcinoma at wk 16 and 32. The proportion of CD4^+CD25^+ Tregs was significantly higher in peri-stomach regional lymph nodes than in other lymphoid tissues. These CD4^+CD25^+ Tregs in regional lymph nodes expressed higher levels of Foxp3 and IL-10, enriched in the CD62L-subset, and CCR1 and CCR5 chemokine receptors. In mice gavaged with BaP + PC61, the number of tumor nodules and tumor volume decreased significantly with massive infiltrating cells and apoptosis of tumor cells. In the draining regional lymph nodes, the number of CD4^+CD25^+ Tregs also decreased significantly. CONCLUSION: Inducible and activated CD4^+CD25^+ Tregs in the draining regional lymph nodes suppress host local immunity during tumor growth. Depletion of CD4^+CD25^+ Tregs can promote host local immunity to suppress tumor growth.展开更多
Objective: To investigate the influence of Danshen Injection on airway inflammation and CD4^+CD25^+ regulatory T cells(CD4^+CD25^+ Tr) of asthmatic rats, and elucidate the possible mechanism of Danshen Inject...Objective: To investigate the influence of Danshen Injection on airway inflammation and CD4^+CD25^+ regulatory T cells(CD4^+CD25^+ Tr) of asthmatic rats, and elucidate the possible mechanism of Danshen Injection in treatment of asthma. Methods: 30 Wister rats were randomly divided into control group, asthma group and Danshen Injection treated group. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluids (BALF) were collected, and cytology studies were conducted. Lung tissues were obtained and pathologic analyses were done with hematoxylin and eosin stain (HE). Flow cytometry was used to detect the CD4^+CD25^+ Tr ratio in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Results: Total cell, the percentage of lymphocytes, neutrophils and eosinophils (Eos) in BALF of Danshen Injection-treated group were lower than that in asthma group (P〈0.05, P〈0.01). Compared with asthma group, less infiltration of inflammatory cells in lung tissues was observed in Danshen Injection-treated group. CD4^+CD25^+ Tr of asthma group was lower than that of control and Danshen Injection treated group (P〈0.05). Conclusion: Danshen Injection can suppress airway inflammation of asthmatic rats, probably by increasing the number of CD4^+CD25^+ Tr.展开更多
Objective: To establish a stable and high efficient method for collection of CD4^+CD25^+ regulatory T cells from rats in vitro. Methods: CD4^+CD25^+ regulatory T cells were isolated from the rat splenic cells th...Objective: To establish a stable and high efficient method for collection of CD4^+CD25^+ regulatory T cells from rats in vitro. Methods: CD4^+CD25^+ regulatory T cells were isolated from the rat splenic cells through two steps by magic cell sorting (MACS) system. The first step was negative selection of CD4^+T cells by cocktail antibodies and anti-IgG magic microbeads, and the second step was positive selection of CD25^+T cells by anti-CD25 PE and anti-PE magic microbeads. The purity and viability of separated cells were measured by flow cytometry (FACS) and Trypan blue staining. The suppressive ability of seperated cells on the proliferation of CD4^+CD25^- T cells was assessed by cell proliferation assay. Results: The purity of negatively enriched CD4^+ T cells was 79%-87% (83.6%±2.5% ) , and the purity of positively enriched CD4^+CD25^+ T cells was 86%- 93% ( 90.2±1.8% ) with the viability of 92%~95% (92.8% ± 3.4% ). The enriched cells significantly suppressed the proliferation of CD4^+CD25^- T cells in mixed lymphocyte culture (P 〈 0.05). Conclusion: An effective method can be established for enrichment of CD4^+CD25^+ regulatory T cells in two steps by MACS, with satisfied cell purity, viability and function.展开更多
Objective To investigate the effects of estrogen(E_2)level on regulatory T cells(Treg)in peripheral blood during pregnancy.Methods:A total of 30 healthy non-pregnant women were selected as control group,90 pregnant wo...Objective To investigate the effects of estrogen(E_2)level on regulatory T cells(Treg)in peripheral blood during pregnancy.Methods:A total of 30 healthy non-pregnant women were selected as control group,90 pregnant women of early,middle and late pregnancy and 30 postpartum women at 1 month after parturition were selected as experimental groups including early pregnancy group,middle pregnancy group and late pregnancy group;the proportions of CD4^+CD25^+Treg and CD4^+CD25^+CD127^-Treg among CD4 T cells were detected by flow cytometry;the serum estrogen content in peripheral blood was detected by electrochemical immune luminescence method.Results:E_2 level was coincident with the change of Tregs number during pregnancy.The estrogen content in peripheral blood increased gradually from early pregnancy to late pregnancy,then decreased significantly after parturition,and the level at 1 month after parturition down to the level in non-pregnancy group(P>0.05);the level of E_2 in pregnancy groups were significantly higher than those in non-pregnancy group(P<0.01);and there were significant differences among early pregnancy group,middle pregnancy group and late pregnancy group(P<0.05).The proportions of CD4^+CD25^+Treg and CD4^+CD25^+CD127^-Treg in pregnancy groups were significantly higher than those in non-pregnancy group(P<0.05),but decreased significantly after parturition,and there was no significant difference between non-pregnancy group and postpartum women group(P>0.05):the proportions in middle and late pregnancy groups were significantly higher than those in early pregnancy group(P<0.05).but decreased slightly in late pregnancy group,there was no significant difference between late pregnancy group and middle pregnancy group(P>0.05).There was correlation between Tregs number with estrogen level during pregnancy.The proportion of CD4^+CD25^+Treg and CD4^+CD25^+CD 127^-Treg were positively correlated with estrogen level.Conclusions:High proportion of CD4^+CD25^+Trcg and CD4^+CD25^+CD127^-Treg is closely related to the high level of E,during pregnancy.It suggested that high level of estrogen may induce an increase of CD4^+CD25^+Treg in peripheral blood.and then influence the immune function of pregnant women.The results of this experiment might play an important role of estrogen in immune-modulation during pregnancy.展开更多
AIM: To investigate the changes of lymphocyte subpopulations, especially CD4^+CD25^ T regulatory cells in Smad3^-/- mice. METHODS: Hematological changes and changes of lymphocyte subpopulations were detected in Sm...AIM: To investigate the changes of lymphocyte subpopulations, especially CD4^+CD25^ T regulatory cells in Smad3^-/- mice. METHODS: Hematological changes and changes of lymphocyte subpopulations were detected in Smad3"/- mice using cell counter and flow cytometry, respectively, and compared to their littermate controls. RESULTS: The numbers of neutrophils and lymphocytes in peripheral blood were significantly increased in Smad3^-/- mice compared to littermate controls. CD19^+ expressing cells in blood and spleen, and CD8^+ T cells in thymus were all markedly decreased in Smad3^-/- mice. More important, Smad3^-/- mice had an increased population of CD4^+CD25^+ T cells in peripheral lymphoid tissues, including thymus, spleen, and lymph nodes. CONCLUSION: These observations suggest that the changes of lymphocyte subpopulations might play a role in susceptibility to inflammation of Smad3^-/- mice.展开更多
Complications arising from abnormal immune responses are the major causes of mortality and morbidity in diabetic patients.CD4^(+)CD25^(+)T regulatory cells(Tregs)play pivotal roles in controlling immune homeostasis,im...Complications arising from abnormal immune responses are the major causes of mortality and morbidity in diabetic patients.CD4^(+)CD25^(+)T regulatory cells(Tregs)play pivotal roles in controlling immune homeostasis,immunity and tolerance.The effect of hyperglycemia on CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Tregs has not yet been addressed.Here we used streptozotocin(STZ)-induced diabetic mice to study the effects of long-term hyperglycemia on CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Tregs in vivo.Four months after the onset of diabetes,the frequency of CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Foxp3^(+)T regulatory cells was significantly elevated in the spleen,peripheral blood lymphocytes(PBLs),peripheral lymph nodes(pLNs)and mesenteric LNs(mLNs).CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Tregs obtained from mice with diabetes displayed defective immunosuppressive functions and an activated/memory phenotype.Insulin administration rescued these changes in the CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Tregs of diabetic mice.The percentage of thymic CD4^(+)CD25^(+)naturally occurring Tregs(nTregs)and peripheral CD41Helios1Foxp31 nTregs were markedly enhanced in diabetic mice,indicating that thymic output contributed to the increased frequency of peripheral CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Tregs in diabetic mice.In an in vitro assay in which Tregs were induced fromCD4^(+)CD25^(+)T cells by transforming growth factor(TGF)-b,high glucose enhanced the efficiency of CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Foxp3^(+)T inducible Tregs(iTregs)induction.In addition,CD4^(+)CD25^(+)T cells from diabetic mice were more susceptible to CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Foxp3^(+)TiTreg differentiation than those cells from control mice.These data,together with the enhanced frequency of CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Foxp3^(+)T iTregs in the periphery of mice with diabetes,indicate that enhanced CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Foxp3^(+)T iTreg induction also contributes to a peripheral increase in CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Tregs in diabetic mice.Our data show that hyperglycemia may alter the frequency of CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Foxp3^(+)T Tregs in mice,which may result in late-state immune dysfunction in patients with diabetes.展开更多
Objective To evaluate the prevalence of CD4 ^+ CD25^high regulatory T cells ( Treg cells) in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) of patients with non-small cel...Objective To evaluate the prevalence of CD4 ^+ CD25^high regulatory T cells ( Treg cells) in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) of patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and to investigate immunosuppression to the progression of cancer. Methods Peripheral blood and tumor tissues were collected from 20 patients with NSCLC at the time of surgery. None of the patients received surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or other medical interventions before this study. Cancer stages of the patients were Ⅰ-Ⅲ A. Venous blood samples were obtained from 20 health donors. PBMC were isolated from blood samples by differential centrifugation over Ficoll-Hypaque. TILs were isolated from tumors by differential centrifugation over Ficoll-Hypaque and Percoll. Percentage of CD4^+ CD25^highTr/CD4+T in PBMC and TIL was assessed by the flow cytometry. Results The percentage of CD4^ + CD25high Tr/ CD4 ^+T in PBMC [ (4. 87 ± 1.22 ) % ] of NSCLC patients was significantly higher than that in healthy donors [ ( 2.36 ± 0. 72 ) % ] ( P 〈 0.01 ). The percentage of CD4^+ CD25^highTr/ CD4^+ T in PBMC [ (5.40 ± 1.20) % ] of NSCLC patients in stage Ⅱ-Ⅲ A was significantly higher than that in stage Ⅰ [ (3. 87 ± 0. 22 ) % ] ( P 〈 0. 01 ). The percentage of CD4 + CD25hiShTr/ CD4 + T in TIL[ ( 8. 66 ±0. 76) % ] of NSCLC patients in stage Ⅱ-Ⅲ A was significantly higher than that in stage Ⅰ [ ( 7. 04 ± 0. 80) % ] ( P 〈 0. 01 ). Conclusion The prevalence of CD4 ^+ CD25^highTreg cells in PBMC and TIL of NSCLC patients was significantly higher than that in healthy donors. These Treg cells may be preventing appropriate antitumor immune responses. The population of CD4^ + CD25^highTreg cells in PBMC and TILs of NSCLC patients with Ⅱ-Ⅲ A stage was significantly higher than that of NSCLC patients with Ⅰ stage. These Treg cells may facilitate development of tumors.展开更多
目的:探讨宫颈癌患者外周血中CD4^+CD25^(+high)调节性T(regulator T cells,Tr)的表达及意义。方法:采用流式细胞术检测52例宫颈癌患者,35例健康女性外周血中CD4^+CD25^(+high)Tr、细胞毒性T细胞(cytotoxic T lymphocytes,CTL)和NK细胞...目的:探讨宫颈癌患者外周血中CD4^+CD25^(+high)调节性T(regulator T cells,Tr)的表达及意义。方法:采用流式细胞术检测52例宫颈癌患者,35例健康女性外周血中CD4^+CD25^(+high)Tr、细胞毒性T细胞(cytotoxic T lymphocytes,CTL)和NK细胞,采用ELISA检测血清中-干扰素(interferon,IFN-)的表达水平。结果:宫颈癌患者外周血CD4^+CD25^(+high)Tr占CD4^+T淋巴细胞的百分比为(7.18±2.32)%,高于健康女性组(P<0.05);宫颈癌患者外周血CD4^+CD25^(+high)Tr水平与CTL、NK细胞及IFN-水平呈负相关。结论:宫颈癌患者外周血中具免疫抑制活性的CD4^+CD25^(+high)Tr水平较高,参与宫颈癌患者的肿瘤免疫抑制。展开更多
The biological features of intrahepatic CD4^(+)CD25^(+)T regulatory cells in the naturally tolerance of rat liver transplantation were explored.Orthotopic liver transplan-tation was performed in two allogeneic rat str...The biological features of intrahepatic CD4^(+)CD25^(+)T regulatory cells in the naturally tolerance of rat liver transplantation were explored.Orthotopic liver transplan-tation was performed in two allogeneic rat strain combina-tions,one with fatal immunosuppression despite a complete major histocompatibility complex mismatch.The subjects were divided into three groups according to different donors and recipients[Tolerance group:LEW-to-DA;Rejection group:DA-to-LEW;Syngegnic group(control group):DA-to-DA].The proportion of intrahepatic CD4^(+)CD25^(+)T cells from three groups was determined by flow cytometry(FCM)in different time.The intrahepaitc CD4^(+)CD25^(+)T cells were isolated by magnetic activated cell sorting(MACS)method and identified by FCM.The Foxp3 mRNA was detected by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction(RT-PCR).And their suppression on the proliferation of CD4^(+)CD25^(-)T effector cells was analyzed by cell proliferation assay in vitro.Beginning immediately after transplantation,the proportion of Treg cells increased over time in both allogeneic groups but was significantly greater in the Rejection group.The pro-portion of Treg cells declined after day 5,and such reduction was more dramatic in the Rejection group than in the Tole-rance group.Animals in the Tolerance group showed a second increase in the proportion after day 14.Intrahepatic CD4^(+)CD25^(+)T cells isolated from spontaneous tolerance models inhibited the proliferation of mixed lymphocyte reaction.The purity of CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Tcells sorted by MACS was 86%–93%.The CD4^(+)CD25^(+)T cells could specifically express the Foxp3 gene compared with CD4^(+)CD25^(-)T cells.In vitro,the spleen cells from LEW rats can irritate the proliferation of CD4^(+)CD25^(+)T cells more obviously than the syngegnic spleen cells.CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Tr cells could suppress the proliferation of CD4^(+)CD25^(-)T cells,but the inhibition was reversed by exo-genous IL-2(200 U/mL).The CD4^(+)CD25^(+)T regulatory cells specifically express the Foxp3 gene,which may play animpor-tant role in the induction of liver transplantation tolerance by suppressing the reaction of effective T cells.展开更多
Background Active suppression by CD4^+CD25^+ regulatory T lymphocytes plays an important role in the down-regulation of T cell responses to foreign and self-antigens. This study was conducted to analyze whether the ...Background Active suppression by CD4^+CD25^+ regulatory T lymphocytes plays an important role in the down-regulation of T cell responses to foreign and self-antigens. This study was conducted to analyze whether the CD4^+CD25^+ regulatory T cells exist and function normally in tuberculous pleural effusion. Methods The percentages of CD4^+CD25^+ T cells in pleural effusion and peripheral blood from patients with tuberculous pleurisy and peripheral blood from healthy control subjects were determined by flow cytometry. The expression of forkhead transcription factor Foxp3 was also examined. CD4^+CD25^+ and CD4^+CD25^-T cells from pleural effusion and blood were isolated, and were cultured to observe the effects of CD4^+CD25^+ T cells on proliferation response of CD4^+CD25^- T cells in vitro. Results There were increased numbers of CD4^+CD25^+ T cells in tuberculous pleural effusion compared with peripheral blood from both patients with tuberculous pleurisy and normal subjects, and these cells demonstrated a constitutive high-level expression of Foxp3. Moreover, CD4^+CD25^+ T cells mediated potent inhibition of proliferation response of CD4^+CD25^- T cells. Conclusion The increased CD4^+CD25^+ T cells in tuberculous pleural effusion express a high level of Foxp3 transcription factor, while potently suppressing the proliferation of CD4^+CD25^- T cells.展开更多
Background CD4^+T cell counts have been used as the indicator of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) disease progression and thereby to determine when to start highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART)...Background CD4^+T cell counts have been used as the indicator of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) disease progression and thereby to determine when to start highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). Whether and how the baseline CD4^+T cell count affects the immunological and viral responses or adverse reactions to nevirapine (NVP)-containing HAART in Chinese HIV-1 infected adults remain to be characterized. Methods One hundred and ninety-eight HIV-seropositive antiretroviral therapy (ART)-naive subjects were enrolled into a prospective study from 2005 to 2007. Data were analyzed by groups based on baseline CD4^+T cell counts either between 100-200 cells/μl or 201-350 cells/μl. Viral responses, immunologic responses and adverse events were monitored at baseline and at weeks 4, 12, 24, 36, 52, 68, 84, 100. Results Eighty-six and 112 subjects ranged their CD4^+T cell counts 100-200 cells/μl and 201-350 cells/μl, respectively. The pre-HAART viral load in CD4 201-350 cells/μl group was significantly lower than that in CD4 100-200 cells/μl group (P=0.000). After treatment, no significant differences were observed between these two groups either in the plasma viral load (pVL) or in the viral response rate calculated as the percentage of pVL less than 50 copies/ml or less than 400 copies/ml. The CD4^+T cell counts were statistically higher in the 201-350 group during the entire follow-ups (P 〈0.01) though CD4^+ T cell count increases were similar in these two groups. After 100-week treatment, the median of CD4^+ T cell counts were increased to 331 cells/μl for CD4 100-200 cells/μl group and to 462 cells/μl for CD4 201-350 cells/μl group. Only a slightly higher incidence of nausea was observed in CD4 201-350 cells/μl group (P=0.05) among all adverse reactions, including rash and liver function abnormality. Conclusions The pVLs and viral response rates are unlikely to be associated with the baseline CD4^+T cell counts. Initiating HAART in Chinese HIV-1 infected patients with higher baseline CD4^+T cell counts could result in higher total CD4^+T cell counts thereby achieve a better immune recovery. These results support current guidelines to start HAART at a threshold of 350 cells/μl.展开更多
基金This project was supported by grants from National Science Fundation for Distinguished Young Scholars (No. 30225038) The National Basic Research Program(No.2001CB5101).
文摘The proportion and changes of CD4^+CD25^high regulatory T cells (Trs) in peripheral blood of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients were analyzed and their clinical significance explored. The peripheral blood was collected from 61 patients with NSCLC and 15 healthy controls. By using monoclonal antibodies, the blood samples were evaluated with the flow cytometry for lymphocyte subsets (CD3^+, CD4^+ and CD8^+) and CD4^+CD25^high Tr cells. The results showed that the proportion of CD4^+CD25^high Tr cells in NSCLC group was significantly higher than in control group [(4.36 ±2.07) % vs (2.04±1.03) %, P〈0.01]. The proportion of CD4^+CD25^ high Tr cells in late stage was higher than that in early stage [stages Ⅰ +Ⅱ (2.264±0.6) %; stage Ⅲ(3.284± 1.38) %; stage IV (6.06 4±4.08) %] (P〈0.05). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis revealed that the prognosis of the patients who had higher proportion of CD4^+CD25^high Tr cells in peripheral blood was worse (P=0.0026). In conclusion, the relative increase in CD4^+CD25^high Tr cells in peripheral blood may be related to im- munosuppression and tumor progression in patients with NSCLC. This finding suggests that CD4^+CD25^high Tr cells in peripheral blood of NSCLC may be positive for prognosis analysis. The use of depletion of the CD4^+CD25^high Tr cell therapy to treat NSCLC patients may be an effective strategy.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No.30330540)the Jiangsu Provincial Fund for Clinical Immunology Key Laboratory (No.200319)the Scientific and Technological Fund to Support Project of Suzhou City (ZS0901)
文摘Objective Age-related increment of the prevalence of CD4^+CD25^+ regulatory T (Treg) cells were described controversially, and whether such changes explain immune dysfunction in the elderly is still unclear. The aim of this systematic review is to evaluate the role of the Tregs in immunosenescence. Methods Medline and manual searches were performed to identify all published epidemiological and animal studies investigating the efficacy of the association between immunosenescence and Treg cells. Results It was founded that the frequency, phenotypic characteristics, and number/function of Tregs were altered significantly with aging. Medical conditions in individuals with advanced ageas well as apoptosis intensity of Treg cells had an impact on the accumulation of Tregs which in turn could deteriorate cytotoxic activity of CD8+ T and NK cells and production of IL-2. The range of immune cells that could be suppressed by Treg cells was quite wide and covered CD4^+CD25^+ T cells, NK cells, dendritic cells and even monocytes. These changes were observed both in humans and experimental animals. Besides, it was believed that frequency of Tregs increased with age and was accompanied by intensified suppressive activity for Tregs in patients, for example, with Alzheimer disease (AD) and Parkinson disease (PD). The impaired condition of CD4+ T cells, so-called immunosenescence, rendered transplant recipients less responsive to an allogeneic kidney graft, an effect that was limited to transplant recipients who were aged over 60 years. Conclusions Treg cells are associated with immunosenescence. All these changes contribute to the aging-related decline of immune responses and lead to the higher risk of immune-mediated diseases, cancer or infections in aged individuals.
基金This project was supported by a program of Science Project of Hubei Province (No.2003AA301C10).
文摘The changes of CD4^+CD25^+ regulatory T cells (CD4^+CD25^+ Treg) and Foxp3 mRNA in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from patients with asthma were investigated in order to elucidate the possible roles of CD4^+CD25^+ Treg in the development of asthma. The peripheral blood samples were collected from 29 healthy controls (normal control group) and 78 patients with asthma which included 30 patients in exacerbation group, 25 patients in persistent group, and 23 patients in remission group. By using flow cytometry and RT-PCR, the CD4^+CD25^+ Treg ratio and Foxp3 mRNA in PBMCs were detected. The CD4^+CD25^+ Treg ratio and Foxp3 mRNA in PBMCs of exacerbation and persistent groups were lower than that of remission and normal control groups (P〈0.05). Although the CD4^+CD25^+ Treg ratio and Foxp3 mRNA of remission group were also lower than that of normal control group, there was no significant difference between them (P〉0.05). As compared with persistent group, exacerbation group had lower CD4^+CD25^+ Treg ratio and Foxp3 mRNA (P〈0.05). It was indicated that the decrease of CD4^+CD25^+ Treg ratio and its function in PBMCs may be responsible for pathogenesis of asthma.
文摘The function of CD4+CD25+ regulatory T lymphocytes (Treg) in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and the effects of atorvastatin were investigated. Forty-eight patients with ACS were randomly divided into two groups: group C receiving conventional therapy (n=24), and group C+A receiving conventional therapy+atorvastatin (10 mg/day, n=24). T lymphocytes from ACS patients (before and 2 weeks after the treatment) or 18 healthy subjects were separated and the flow cytometry was used to measure the percentage of Treg. The inhibitory ability of Treg on effector T cells was determined by mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR). ELISA was used to measure the serum levels of cytokines (IL-10, TGF-β1 and IFN-γ) before and after treatment. The results showed that as compared with normal control group, Treg percentage was decreased significantly (P〈0.01), the inhibitory ability of Treg on the T lymphocytes proliferation was reduced (P〈0.01), IFN-γ levels were increased and IL-10 and TGF-β1 levels were lowered in ACS patients. After treatment with atorvastatin, Treg percentage and the inhibitory ability of Treg on T lymphocytes proliferation were significantly increased in ACS patients. Serum IFN-γ was decreased significantly, while IL-10 and TGF-β1 were elevated significantly as compared with the non-atorvastatin group. The number of Treg was positively correlated with serum TGF-β1, but negatively with serum IFN-γ and CRP. It was concluded that ACS was associated with decreased number and defected function of Treg, which may play an important role in initiating immune-inflammatory response in ACS. The inhibitory effects of atorvastatin on inflammation in ACS may be due to its beneficial effects on Treg and restoration of immune homeostasis.
基金Grant NSC93-2320-B41-010 and NSC93-2314-B-006-112 from the National Science Council, Taiwan, China
文摘AIM: To elucidate the distribution of CD4^+CD25^+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) in different lymphoid tissues and its local enhancement on tumor growth before and after depletion of CD4^+CD25^+ Tregs. METHODS: Female ICR mice were garaged with benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) to induce forestomach carcinoma. CD4^+CD25^+ Tregs were intraperitoneally depleted with monoclonal antibody PC61. These mice were divided into BaP-only, BaP + IgG, BaP + PC61, and control groups. The forestomach of mice was dissected for histological analysis, and tunnel test was performed for apoptosis of tumor cells. CD4^+CD25^+ Tregs were sorted from different lymphoid tissues and expression of Foxp3, IL-10, and chemokine receptors was analyzed by flow cytometry, semi-quantitative and veal-time polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS: The mice gavaged with only BaP showed increased forestomach papilloma and carcinoma at wk 16 and 32. The proportion of CD4^+CD25^+ Tregs was significantly higher in peri-stomach regional lymph nodes than in other lymphoid tissues. These CD4^+CD25^+ Tregs in regional lymph nodes expressed higher levels of Foxp3 and IL-10, enriched in the CD62L-subset, and CCR1 and CCR5 chemokine receptors. In mice gavaged with BaP + PC61, the number of tumor nodules and tumor volume decreased significantly with massive infiltrating cells and apoptosis of tumor cells. In the draining regional lymph nodes, the number of CD4^+CD25^+ Tregs also decreased significantly. CONCLUSION: Inducible and activated CD4^+CD25^+ Tregs in the draining regional lymph nodes suppress host local immunity during tumor growth. Depletion of CD4^+CD25^+ Tregs can promote host local immunity to suppress tumor growth.
基金This This work was supported by a grant from the Science and Technology Foundation of Hubei Province (2003AA301C10)
文摘Objective: To investigate the influence of Danshen Injection on airway inflammation and CD4^+CD25^+ regulatory T cells(CD4^+CD25^+ Tr) of asthmatic rats, and elucidate the possible mechanism of Danshen Injection in treatment of asthma. Methods: 30 Wister rats were randomly divided into control group, asthma group and Danshen Injection treated group. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluids (BALF) were collected, and cytology studies were conducted. Lung tissues were obtained and pathologic analyses were done with hematoxylin and eosin stain (HE). Flow cytometry was used to detect the CD4^+CD25^+ Tr ratio in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Results: Total cell, the percentage of lymphocytes, neutrophils and eosinophils (Eos) in BALF of Danshen Injection-treated group were lower than that in asthma group (P〈0.05, P〈0.01). Compared with asthma group, less infiltration of inflammatory cells in lung tissues was observed in Danshen Injection-treated group. CD4^+CD25^+ Tr of asthma group was lower than that of control and Danshen Injection treated group (P〈0.05). Conclusion: Danshen Injection can suppress airway inflammation of asthmatic rats, probably by increasing the number of CD4^+CD25^+ Tr.
基金135 Medical Emphasis Grant from Government of Jiangsu Province (135-43)
文摘Objective: To establish a stable and high efficient method for collection of CD4^+CD25^+ regulatory T cells from rats in vitro. Methods: CD4^+CD25^+ regulatory T cells were isolated from the rat splenic cells through two steps by magic cell sorting (MACS) system. The first step was negative selection of CD4^+T cells by cocktail antibodies and anti-IgG magic microbeads, and the second step was positive selection of CD25^+T cells by anti-CD25 PE and anti-PE magic microbeads. The purity and viability of separated cells were measured by flow cytometry (FACS) and Trypan blue staining. The suppressive ability of seperated cells on the proliferation of CD4^+CD25^- T cells was assessed by cell proliferation assay. Results: The purity of negatively enriched CD4^+ T cells was 79%-87% (83.6%±2.5% ) , and the purity of positively enriched CD4^+CD25^+ T cells was 86%- 93% ( 90.2±1.8% ) with the viability of 92%~95% (92.8% ± 3.4% ). The enriched cells significantly suppressed the proliferation of CD4^+CD25^- T cells in mixed lymphocyte culture (P 〈 0.05). Conclusion: An effective method can be established for enrichment of CD4^+CD25^+ regulatory T cells in two steps by MACS, with satisfied cell purity, viability and function.
基金supported by Science and Technology Project of Jiangxi Province(2009BSB10909)
文摘Objective To investigate the effects of estrogen(E_2)level on regulatory T cells(Treg)in peripheral blood during pregnancy.Methods:A total of 30 healthy non-pregnant women were selected as control group,90 pregnant women of early,middle and late pregnancy and 30 postpartum women at 1 month after parturition were selected as experimental groups including early pregnancy group,middle pregnancy group and late pregnancy group;the proportions of CD4^+CD25^+Treg and CD4^+CD25^+CD127^-Treg among CD4 T cells were detected by flow cytometry;the serum estrogen content in peripheral blood was detected by electrochemical immune luminescence method.Results:E_2 level was coincident with the change of Tregs number during pregnancy.The estrogen content in peripheral blood increased gradually from early pregnancy to late pregnancy,then decreased significantly after parturition,and the level at 1 month after parturition down to the level in non-pregnancy group(P>0.05);the level of E_2 in pregnancy groups were significantly higher than those in non-pregnancy group(P<0.01);and there were significant differences among early pregnancy group,middle pregnancy group and late pregnancy group(P<0.05).The proportions of CD4^+CD25^+Treg and CD4^+CD25^+CD127^-Treg in pregnancy groups were significantly higher than those in non-pregnancy group(P<0.05),but decreased significantly after parturition,and there was no significant difference between non-pregnancy group and postpartum women group(P>0.05):the proportions in middle and late pregnancy groups were significantly higher than those in early pregnancy group(P<0.05).but decreased slightly in late pregnancy group,there was no significant difference between late pregnancy group and middle pregnancy group(P>0.05).There was correlation between Tregs number with estrogen level during pregnancy.The proportion of CD4^+CD25^+Treg and CD4^+CD25^+CD 127^-Treg were positively correlated with estrogen level.Conclusions:High proportion of CD4^+CD25^+Trcg and CD4^+CD25^+CD127^-Treg is closely related to the high level of E,during pregnancy.It suggested that high level of estrogen may induce an increase of CD4^+CD25^+Treg in peripheral blood.and then influence the immune function of pregnant women.The results of this experiment might play an important role of estrogen in immune-modulation during pregnancy.
文摘AIM: To investigate the changes of lymphocyte subpopulations, especially CD4^+CD25^ T regulatory cells in Smad3^-/- mice. METHODS: Hematological changes and changes of lymphocyte subpopulations were detected in Smad3"/- mice using cell counter and flow cytometry, respectively, and compared to their littermate controls. RESULTS: The numbers of neutrophils and lymphocytes in peripheral blood were significantly increased in Smad3^-/- mice compared to littermate controls. CD19^+ expressing cells in blood and spleen, and CD8^+ T cells in thymus were all markedly decreased in Smad3^-/- mice. More important, Smad3^-/- mice had an increased population of CD4^+CD25^+ T cells in peripheral lymphoid tissues, including thymus, spleen, and lymph nodes. CONCLUSION: These observations suggest that the changes of lymphocyte subpopulations might play a role in susceptibility to inflammation of Smad3^-/- mice.
基金grants from the National Basic Research Program of China(973 program,2010CB945301)National Natural Science Foundation for Key Programs(30630060).
文摘Complications arising from abnormal immune responses are the major causes of mortality and morbidity in diabetic patients.CD4^(+)CD25^(+)T regulatory cells(Tregs)play pivotal roles in controlling immune homeostasis,immunity and tolerance.The effect of hyperglycemia on CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Tregs has not yet been addressed.Here we used streptozotocin(STZ)-induced diabetic mice to study the effects of long-term hyperglycemia on CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Tregs in vivo.Four months after the onset of diabetes,the frequency of CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Foxp3^(+)T regulatory cells was significantly elevated in the spleen,peripheral blood lymphocytes(PBLs),peripheral lymph nodes(pLNs)and mesenteric LNs(mLNs).CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Tregs obtained from mice with diabetes displayed defective immunosuppressive functions and an activated/memory phenotype.Insulin administration rescued these changes in the CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Tregs of diabetic mice.The percentage of thymic CD4^(+)CD25^(+)naturally occurring Tregs(nTregs)and peripheral CD41Helios1Foxp31 nTregs were markedly enhanced in diabetic mice,indicating that thymic output contributed to the increased frequency of peripheral CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Tregs in diabetic mice.In an in vitro assay in which Tregs were induced fromCD4^(+)CD25^(+)T cells by transforming growth factor(TGF)-b,high glucose enhanced the efficiency of CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Foxp3^(+)T inducible Tregs(iTregs)induction.In addition,CD4^(+)CD25^(+)T cells from diabetic mice were more susceptible to CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Foxp3^(+)TiTreg differentiation than those cells from control mice.These data,together with the enhanced frequency of CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Foxp3^(+)T iTregs in the periphery of mice with diabetes,indicate that enhanced CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Foxp3^(+)T iTreg induction also contributes to a peripheral increase in CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Tregs in diabetic mice.Our data show that hyperglycemia may alter the frequency of CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Foxp3^(+)T Tregs in mice,which may result in late-state immune dysfunction in patients with diabetes.
基金Supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Shanghai,China(04ZR14109)
文摘Objective To evaluate the prevalence of CD4 ^+ CD25^high regulatory T cells ( Treg cells) in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) of patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and to investigate immunosuppression to the progression of cancer. Methods Peripheral blood and tumor tissues were collected from 20 patients with NSCLC at the time of surgery. None of the patients received surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or other medical interventions before this study. Cancer stages of the patients were Ⅰ-Ⅲ A. Venous blood samples were obtained from 20 health donors. PBMC were isolated from blood samples by differential centrifugation over Ficoll-Hypaque. TILs were isolated from tumors by differential centrifugation over Ficoll-Hypaque and Percoll. Percentage of CD4^+ CD25^highTr/CD4+T in PBMC and TIL was assessed by the flow cytometry. Results The percentage of CD4^ + CD25high Tr/ CD4 ^+T in PBMC [ (4. 87 ± 1.22 ) % ] of NSCLC patients was significantly higher than that in healthy donors [ ( 2.36 ± 0. 72 ) % ] ( P 〈 0.01 ). The percentage of CD4^+ CD25^highTr/ CD4^+ T in PBMC [ (5.40 ± 1.20) % ] of NSCLC patients in stage Ⅱ-Ⅲ A was significantly higher than that in stage Ⅰ [ (3. 87 ± 0. 22 ) % ] ( P 〈 0. 01 ). The percentage of CD4 + CD25hiShTr/ CD4 + T in TIL[ ( 8. 66 ±0. 76) % ] of NSCLC patients in stage Ⅱ-Ⅲ A was significantly higher than that in stage Ⅰ [ ( 7. 04 ± 0. 80) % ] ( P 〈 0. 01 ). Conclusion The prevalence of CD4 ^+ CD25^highTreg cells in PBMC and TIL of NSCLC patients was significantly higher than that in healthy donors. These Treg cells may be preventing appropriate antitumor immune responses. The population of CD4^ + CD25^highTreg cells in PBMC and TILs of NSCLC patients with Ⅱ-Ⅲ A stage was significantly higher than that of NSCLC patients with Ⅰ stage. These Treg cells may facilitate development of tumors.
文摘目的:探讨宫颈癌患者外周血中CD4^+CD25^(+high)调节性T(regulator T cells,Tr)的表达及意义。方法:采用流式细胞术检测52例宫颈癌患者,35例健康女性外周血中CD4^+CD25^(+high)Tr、细胞毒性T细胞(cytotoxic T lymphocytes,CTL)和NK细胞,采用ELISA检测血清中-干扰素(interferon,IFN-)的表达水平。结果:宫颈癌患者外周血CD4^+CD25^(+high)Tr占CD4^+T淋巴细胞的百分比为(7.18±2.32)%,高于健康女性组(P<0.05);宫颈癌患者外周血CD4^+CD25^(+high)Tr水平与CTL、NK细胞及IFN-水平呈负相关。结论:宫颈癌患者外周血中具免疫抑制活性的CD4^+CD25^(+high)Tr水平较高,参与宫颈癌患者的肿瘤免疫抑制。
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.30271236).
文摘The biological features of intrahepatic CD4^(+)CD25^(+)T regulatory cells in the naturally tolerance of rat liver transplantation were explored.Orthotopic liver transplan-tation was performed in two allogeneic rat strain combina-tions,one with fatal immunosuppression despite a complete major histocompatibility complex mismatch.The subjects were divided into three groups according to different donors and recipients[Tolerance group:LEW-to-DA;Rejection group:DA-to-LEW;Syngegnic group(control group):DA-to-DA].The proportion of intrahepatic CD4^(+)CD25^(+)T cells from three groups was determined by flow cytometry(FCM)in different time.The intrahepaitc CD4^(+)CD25^(+)T cells were isolated by magnetic activated cell sorting(MACS)method and identified by FCM.The Foxp3 mRNA was detected by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction(RT-PCR).And their suppression on the proliferation of CD4^(+)CD25^(-)T effector cells was analyzed by cell proliferation assay in vitro.Beginning immediately after transplantation,the proportion of Treg cells increased over time in both allogeneic groups but was significantly greater in the Rejection group.The pro-portion of Treg cells declined after day 5,and such reduction was more dramatic in the Rejection group than in the Tole-rance group.Animals in the Tolerance group showed a second increase in the proportion after day 14.Intrahepatic CD4^(+)CD25^(+)T cells isolated from spontaneous tolerance models inhibited the proliferation of mixed lymphocyte reaction.The purity of CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Tcells sorted by MACS was 86%–93%.The CD4^(+)CD25^(+)T cells could specifically express the Foxp3 gene compared with CD4^(+)CD25^(-)T cells.In vitro,the spleen cells from LEW rats can irritate the proliferation of CD4^(+)CD25^(+)T cells more obviously than the syngegnic spleen cells.CD4^(+)CD25^(+)Tr cells could suppress the proliferation of CD4^(+)CD25^(-)T cells,but the inhibition was reversed by exo-genous IL-2(200 U/mL).The CD4^(+)CD25^(+)T regulatory cells specifically express the Foxp3 gene,which may play animpor-tant role in the induction of liver transplantation tolerance by suppressing the reaction of effective T cells.
基金This study was supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 30660064), and the Natural Science Foundation of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China (No. 0639044 and No. 0728137).
文摘Background Active suppression by CD4^+CD25^+ regulatory T lymphocytes plays an important role in the down-regulation of T cell responses to foreign and self-antigens. This study was conducted to analyze whether the CD4^+CD25^+ regulatory T cells exist and function normally in tuberculous pleural effusion. Methods The percentages of CD4^+CD25^+ T cells in pleural effusion and peripheral blood from patients with tuberculous pleurisy and peripheral blood from healthy control subjects were determined by flow cytometry. The expression of forkhead transcription factor Foxp3 was also examined. CD4^+CD25^+ and CD4^+CD25^-T cells from pleural effusion and blood were isolated, and were cultured to observe the effects of CD4^+CD25^+ T cells on proliferation response of CD4^+CD25^- T cells in vitro. Results There were increased numbers of CD4^+CD25^+ T cells in tuberculous pleural effusion compared with peripheral blood from both patients with tuberculous pleurisy and normal subjects, and these cells demonstrated a constitutive high-level expression of Foxp3. Moreover, CD4^+CD25^+ T cells mediated potent inhibition of proliferation response of CD4^+CD25^- T cells. Conclusion The increased CD4^+CD25^+ T cells in tuberculous pleural effusion express a high level of Foxp3 transcription factor, while potently suppressing the proliferation of CD4^+CD25^- T cells.
文摘Background CD4^+T cell counts have been used as the indicator of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) disease progression and thereby to determine when to start highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). Whether and how the baseline CD4^+T cell count affects the immunological and viral responses or adverse reactions to nevirapine (NVP)-containing HAART in Chinese HIV-1 infected adults remain to be characterized. Methods One hundred and ninety-eight HIV-seropositive antiretroviral therapy (ART)-naive subjects were enrolled into a prospective study from 2005 to 2007. Data were analyzed by groups based on baseline CD4^+T cell counts either between 100-200 cells/μl or 201-350 cells/μl. Viral responses, immunologic responses and adverse events were monitored at baseline and at weeks 4, 12, 24, 36, 52, 68, 84, 100. Results Eighty-six and 112 subjects ranged their CD4^+T cell counts 100-200 cells/μl and 201-350 cells/μl, respectively. The pre-HAART viral load in CD4 201-350 cells/μl group was significantly lower than that in CD4 100-200 cells/μl group (P=0.000). After treatment, no significant differences were observed between these two groups either in the plasma viral load (pVL) or in the viral response rate calculated as the percentage of pVL less than 50 copies/ml or less than 400 copies/ml. The CD4^+T cell counts were statistically higher in the 201-350 group during the entire follow-ups (P 〈0.01) though CD4^+ T cell count increases were similar in these two groups. After 100-week treatment, the median of CD4^+ T cell counts were increased to 331 cells/μl for CD4 100-200 cells/μl group and to 462 cells/μl for CD4 201-350 cells/μl group. Only a slightly higher incidence of nausea was observed in CD4 201-350 cells/μl group (P=0.05) among all adverse reactions, including rash and liver function abnormality. Conclusions The pVLs and viral response rates are unlikely to be associated with the baseline CD4^+T cell counts. Initiating HAART in Chinese HIV-1 infected patients with higher baseline CD4^+T cell counts could result in higher total CD4^+T cell counts thereby achieve a better immune recovery. These results support current guidelines to start HAART at a threshold of 350 cells/μl.