Circulating FOXP3+ T-lymphocytes in chronic coronary artery disease: associations with the severity of atherosclerosis and lipid metabolism

Introduction. The transcription factor forkhead box protein P3 (FoxP3) is a major regulator of T-regulatory (Treg) lymphocytes and may be expressed in T-conventional (Tconv) lymphocytes at the stage of their activation. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the quantities and features of FoxP3+ Tconv and Treg lymphocytes and their relationships with the parameters of lipid metabolism in patients with chronic coronary artery disease (CAD) depending on the severity of coronary atherosclerosis.Material and Methods. The study comprised 14 patients (8 men and 6 women) aged 66.5 ± 9.0 years with verified chronic CAD. All the patients underwent coronary angiography and assessment of atherosclerosis severity by calculation of Gensini Score index (GS). Patients were divided into the following groups: group 1 had GS