The role of heme oxygenase-1 in T cell-mediated immunity: the all encompassing enzyme.

Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is the rate-limiting enzyme of ferroheme metabolic pathway, which has the functions of antioxidation, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptosis and anti-smooth muscle hyperplasia. Furthermore, HO-1 exerts a protective action in the diseases mediated by effector T lymphocytes such as T helper (Th) 1, Th2 and Th17. In addition, regulatory T cells (Treg) control the activity of CD4+CD25- effector cells in a suppressive manner. Numerous studies indicate that the protective action of HO-1 in diseases is through CD4+CD25+ Treg. This paper will review the current research and understanding of HO-1s role in T cells-mediated immunoregulation.