T cell development: new approaches.
The differentiation of T lymphocyte precursors into functionally mature progeny proceeds in distinct stages. Since these are identified by characteristic constellations of phenotypic markers, the effects of experimental manipulations on T cell development can be readily monitored. In order to complete their developmental program, thymocytes must interact with stromal elements, which positively and negatively select the functional T cell receptor (TCR) repertoire. This process normally assures self tolerance and immunocompetence. Disturbances are of practical importance for clinical disorders including immunodeficiencies and autoimmune phenomena, raising a particular interest in human T cell development and repertoire formation. Here, we discuss results and possible applications of a culture system for human thymocytes. Further, we describe an in vitro approach addressing the requirements for a crucial step in T cell development; the transition from the immature CD4 CD8 double positive (DP) to the mature CD4 single positive (SP) stage.
Merkenschlager
M
M
Laboratoire de Genetique Moleculaire des Eucaryotes du CNRS, Strasbourg, France.
Fisher
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AG
D000818:Animals; D015703:Antigens, CD / Q000378:metabolism; D002454:Cell Differentiation; D002478:Cells, Cultured; D006801:Humans; D051379:Mice; D009924:Organ Culture Techniques / Q000379:methods; D010641:Phenotype; D016176:T-Lymphocyte Subsets / Q000166:cytology / Q000378:metabolism; D013601:T-Lymphocytes / Q000166:cytology* / Q000378:metabolism
D015703:Antigens, CD