Mechanical Growth Factor Promotes FOXP3 Expression in Regulatory T Cells and Enhances Its Function in Treating Ankylosing Spondylitis
Abstract Objective: We aimed to verify whether mechanical growth factor (MGF) may be an effective target for treating ankylosing spondylitis. Methods: FOXP3 expression was measured in Treg cells from healthy male subjects administered MGF. A rat model of ankylosing spondylitis was established, and the level of ankylosing spondylitis-related factors (tumor necrosis factor [TNF]-α, interleukin [IL]-2, and IL-10) was measured. Results: We found that the proliferation and total number of Treg cells, as well as FOXP3 expression, significantly increased in the MGF-treated groups compared with those in the control. The level of inflammation, bone destruction, and new bone formation significantly decreased in rats treated with MGF compared with those in the control group. TNF-α expression significantly decreased, whereas the IL-2 and IL-10 levels significantly increased in the MGF group compared with those in the control. Conclusions: MGF may delay disease progression in ankylosing rats by inducing FOXP3 expression, promoting FOXP3+ Treg cell proliferation and differentiation, reducing TNF-α expression, and increasing IL-10 and IL-2 expression.