Prostaglandin E2 suppresses human group 2 innate lymphoid cell function

Background Group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s) are involved in the initial phase of type 2 inflammation and can amplify allergic immune responses by orchestrating other type 2 immune cells. Prostaglandin (PG) E 2 is a bioactive lipid that plays protective roles in the lung, particularly during allergic inflammation. Objective We set out to investigate how PGE 2 regulates human ILC2 function. Methods The effects of PGE 2 on human ILC2 proliferation and intracellular cytokine and transcription factor expression were assessed by means of flow cytometry. Cytokine production was measured by using ELISA, and real-time quantitative PCR was performed to detect PGE 2 receptor expression. Results PGE 2 inhibited GATA-3 expression, as well as production of the type 2 cytokines IL-5 and IL-13, from human tonsillar and blood ILC2s in response to stimulation with a combination of IL-25, IL-33, thymic stromal lymphopoietin, and IL-2. Furthermore, PGE 2 downregulated the expression of IL-2 receptor α (CD25). In line with this observation, PGE 2 decreased ILC2 proliferation. These effects were mediated by the combined action of E-type prostanoid receptor (EP) 2 and EP4 receptors, which were specifically expressed on ILC2s. Conclusion Our findings reveal that PGE 2 limits ILC2 activation and propose that selective EP2 and EP4 receptor agonists might serve as a promising therapeutic approach in treating allergic diseases by suppressing ILC2 function.