Developing a better understanding of tissue-resident CD8+ T (Trm) cells in gut inflammation

What this research looked at

The researchers wanted to study how problems in the immune system may lead to the inflammation commonly seen in people with Crohn's and Colitis. The research group has been investigating the different cell populations found in the human gut during endoscopy, and examining them using new lab techniques. One of these techniques is called ‘single cell RNA sequencing’. This technique lets the researchers look at rare or difficult to access cells that have not been analysed before, but may be important in the development of Crohn’s and Colitis. 

In this study the researchers used single cell RNA sequencing to look more closely at a particular group of immune cells in the gut called tissue-resident CD8+ T (Trm) cells. When these cells gather in the gut, inflammation may occur. Abnormalities in the way that Trm cells work could help to explain why Crohn’s or Colitis develops in some people.

What this research found

Using single cell RNA sequencing the researchers were able to identify different groups of Trm cells in gut tissue of people with Ulcerative Colitis. This included a group of cells that could be causing inflammation (effector cells) and another group of cells that may act as immune system protectors (regulatory cells).

What this could mean for people with Crohn's and Colitis  

This exciting discovery means that new medicines could be created to target either of these groups of cells. This could lead to a more personalised approach when treating people with Crohn’s or Colitis.

The study also provides the basis for future studies to follow the same model, which could lead to even more research within this field.

Lead researcher: Dr Daniele Corridoni, University of Oxford  

Our Funding: £25,000 Duration: 24 months 
Grant reference: M2017-1 
Official title of application: Phenotypic and functional analysis of resident CD8+ T cells in intestinal mucosa in health and inflammatory bowel disease utilizing single cell approaches 
Tags: IBD and cells