The epigenetic control of regulatory T cell development, stability and function

Regulatory T (Treg) cells are indispensable for maintaining immune homeostasis and peripheral tolerance but are a barrier to anti-tumour immunity. Therefore, the manipulation of Treg cells could provide therapeutic benefits. Epigenetic regulation is essential for the Treg cell program, yet the exact involvement of many epigenetic modifiers remains unclear. This thesis has examined the role of two epigenetic modifiers, G9a and DOT1L, in Treg cell biology. I have shown that G9a and DOT1L have contrasting roles in controlling Treg cell stability and function, potentially serving as novel therapeutic targets for promoting or destabilising Treg cells, depending on the disease context.