Transcriptomic analysis of human regulatory T cells treated with chronic myeloid leukemia-derived extracellular vesicles

The aim of our study was to evaluate if and how leukemic extracellular vesicles (EVs) modulate human regulatory T cells (Treg). Treg in myeloid leukemias have a pro-leukemic function, but mechanisms driving these cells are unknown. We hypothesised that leukemia-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) may be a factor that polarizes Treg into pro-leukemic cells. Using bulk RNA sequencing we study transcriptomic differences in human regulatory T cells (3 biological replicates = Treg from 3 different donors) treated with leukemic EVs released by chronic myeloid leukemia K562 cells. We observed significant transcriptomic differences, e.g. in genes responsible for RNA processing and alternative splicing, as well as genes engaged in T cell maturation, origin and activity. Using obtained datasets we also identified transcription factors engaged in this regulation. RNA sequencing data is part of a bigger study, where we study leukemic EVs-Treg interaction using human regulatory T cells, analysis by multicolor flow cytometry, functional studies, in vivo models. Overall design: 3 biological replicates (Treg from 3 donors), either CTRL (untreated) or treated with leukemic extracellular vesicles. Overall 6 samples.