AIM: To investigate the dynamic changes of T cells in different stage of experimental autoimmune uveoretinitis(EAU)and supply technical guide for optimal treatment protocols and curative effect evaluation of uveoretinitis.

METHODS: EAU was induced in C57BL/6 mice by subcutaneous immunization of CFA+PTX+IRBP in hind limb and empennage. Peripheral blood flowcytometry was performed at 3, 7, 14, 21 and 28 days after immunization, respectively.

RESULTS: After immunization with specific antigen IRBP, clinical assessment showed EAU occurred at 14 days and became severe at 21 days, but gradually relieved at 28 days. Accompanying with intraocular inflammation of EAU, both CD4⁺CD25⁺ T regular cells and CD4⁺CD3⁺ helper T cells increased. Especially,CD4⁺CD25⁺ T regular cells increased more obviously at 21 days. The number of CD4⁺CD25⁺Foxp3⁺ T regular cells had a great raising and gradually reduction after 28 days. The ratio of CD4⁺CD25⁺Foxp3⁺/CD4⁺CD25^-Foxp3⁺ had a piecemeal increase after 3 days and reached the peak at 21 days then reduced at 28 days.

CONCLUSION: The groups of CD4⁺CD25^+/- Foxp3⁺ T regular cells have a close relationship with the development and turnover of EAU. The groups of CD4⁺CD25^+/-Foxp3⁺ T regular cells provide a new thread for clarity remission mechanism of EAU, prevention and treatment of EAU.