BLIMP1 guides the fate of effector B and T cells.
B-lymphocyte-induced maturation protein 1 (BLIMP1) is a transcriptional repressor, and its importance in controlling the terminal differentiation of antibody-secreting cells (ASCs) is well established. However, as we discuss in this Progress article, it has now become evident that the ASC programme consists of a discrete BLIMP1-independent initiation phase, followed by a second step in which BLIMP1 is absolutely required for the differentiation of fully mature ASCs. In addition, an important role for BLIMP1 in maintaining the homeostasis of effector T cells is emerging, suggesting intriguing parallels between the control of effector-cell fates in both B and T cells.
Nutt
Stephen L
SL
The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville Victoria, 3050, Australia. nutt@wehi.edu.au
Fairfax
Kirsten A
KA
Kallies
Axel
A
D000818:Animals; D000921:Antibody-Producing Cells / Q000166:cytology; D001402:B-Lymphocytes / Q000502:physiology*; D002454:Cell Differentiation; D006801:Humans; D007376:Interleukin-2 / Q000096:biosynthesis; D000074462:Positive Regulatory Domain I-Binding Factor 1; D012097:Repressor Proteins / Q000235:genetics / Q000502:physiology*; D013601:T-Lymphocytes / Q000502:physiology*; D014157:Transcription Factors / Q000235:genetics / Q000502:physiology*; D014158:Transcription, Genetic
D007376:Interleukin-2; D012097:Repressor Proteins; D014157:Transcription Factors; C087042:PRDM1 protein, human; D000074462:Positive Regulatory Domain I-Binding Factor 1