Regulatory T cells in oral squamous cell carcinoma

Regulatory T cells (Tregs) play a critical role in modulating and maintaining immune homeostasis and tolerance. They accumulate in many types of tumors and play a critical role in tumor evasion of immune surveillance. Oral cancer is characterized by an increase in the number of infiltrating Tregs; however, the significance of this increase on the prognosis of oral cancer is controversial. This review focuses on the function of Tregs in oral squamous cell carcinoma and its implications on prognosis. We also discuss potential therapeutic strategies aimed at Tregs modification in oral SCC.