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Abstract
This dissertation investigates the role of regulatory T cells (Tregs) in uveitis using a murine adoptive transfer model and intravital microscopy. Contrary to expectations, depletion of systemic Tregs did not significantly alter effector T cell or dendritic cell behavior during ocular inflammation, suggesting Tregs do not contribute to resolution in this model. Novel findings include age-dependent Treg accumulation at the limbal vessel arcade, higher Treg presence in palpebral versus bulbar conjunctiva, and stable CD11c⁺ dendritic cell distribution except during inflammation. These results highlight eye-intrinsic anti-inflammatory mechanisms and suggest a potential role for limbal Tregs in corneal immune privilege.