Role play of regulatory T cells and resolvins in type 2 diabetes

Low-grade systemic inflammation is seen in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), which is also considered the underlying mechanism for the occurrence of major complications observed in these patients. In developing countries like India, prediabetes/insulin resistance is often overlooked. Specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs) are a family of anti-inflammatory lipid molecules that are needed to resolve inflammation to maintain immune balance and prevent complications due to DM. Treg cells are a subset of CD4 + T cells that express IL-2 receptor alpha chain CD25 and FOXP3 transcription factor to maintain immune tolerance during diabetes. In this context, the role of resolvins in the regulatory function of Treg cells assumes significance in the prevention and management of diabetic complications. In the current review, we explore the functions of Tregs and resolvins and their potential implications in managing insulin resistance, obesity, and type 2 diabetes.