Epigenetics and the adaptive immune response.
Cells of the adaptive immune response undergo dynamic epigenetic changes as they develop and respond to immune challenge. Plasticity is a necessary prerequisite for the chromosomal dynamics of lineage specification, development, and the immune effector function of the mature cell types. The alterations in DNA methylation and histone modification that characterize activation may be integral to the generation of immunologic memory, thereby providing an advantage on secondary exposure to pathogens. While the immune system benefits from the dynamic nature of the epigenome, such benefit comes at a cost - increased likelihood of disease-causing mutation.
Laboratory of Molecular Carcinogenesis, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA.
Hrisavgi D
HD
Kondilis-Mangum
Paul A
PA
Wade
D056704:Adaptive Immunity / Q000235:genetics*; D000818:Animals; D001402:B-Lymphocytes / Q000502:physiology; D019175:DNA Methylation; D015257:DNA-Cytosine Methylases / Q000502:physiology; D044127:Epigenesis, Genetic / Q000276:immunology*; D006657:Histones / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D007156:Immunologic Memory; D011499:Protein Processing, Post-Translational; D013601:T-Lymphocytes / Q000502:physiology; D060152:V(D)J Recombination
D006657:Histones; D015257:DNA-Cytosine Methylases