Epigenetic control of T-helper-cell differentiation.
Naive CD4(+) T cells give rise to T-helper-cell subsets with functions that are tailored to their respective roles in host defence. The specification of T-helper-cell subsets is controlled by networks of lineage-specifying transcription factors, which bind to regulatory elements in genes that encode cytokines and other transcription factors. The nuclear context in which these transcription factors act is affected by epigenetic processes, which allow programmes of gene expression to be inherited by progeny cells that at the same time retain the potential for change in response to altered environmental signals. In this Review, we describe these epigenetic processes and discuss how they collaborate to govern the fate and function of T helper cells.
Wilson
Christopher B
CB
Department of Immunology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195, USA. cbwilson@u.washington.edu
Rowell
Emily
E
Sekimata
Masayuki
M
D000818:Animals; D019070:Cell Lineage / Q000235:genetics / Q000276:immunology; D002843:Chromatin / Q000737:chemistry / Q000502:physiology; D019175:DNA Methylation; D044127:Epigenesis, Genetic; D006657:Histones / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D038041:Lymphopoiesis / Q000235:genetics*; D006377:T-Lymphocytes, Helper-Inducer / Q000276:immunology*; D014158:Transcription, Genetic
D002843:Chromatin; D006657:Histones