Intrathymic IL-7: the where, when, and why of IL-7 signaling during T cell development.
Semin Immunol
; 24(3): 151-8, 2012 Jun.
Article
em En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-22421571
ABSTRACT
The thymus is the birthplace of all T lineage cells. But the thymus is also a cradle as it provides the environment for further maturation and differentiation of immature thymocytes. While many factors contribute to make the thymus a unique place for T cell development, here we review the essential role of intrathymic interleukin-7 (IL-7). In the absence of IL-7 signaling, survival, proliferation and differentiation of immature thymocytes are all severely impaired. Consequently, IL-7 is critical to nurture and guide T precursor cells through the diverse steps of thymic maturation. Interestingly, even as IL-7 signaling is such a critical factor, IL-7 signaling must be also actively suppressed during specific stages of T cell differentiation. These contradictory observations are puzzling but can be satisfactorily explained when understanding the developmental context of IL-7 signaling. In this regard, here we will discuss the spatiotemporal expression of intrathymic IL-7 and address the stage-specific effects of IL-7 signaling in developing thymocytes. Specifically, we will review other facets of intrathymic IL-7 beyond its role as a pro-survival factor and so clarify and reaffirm the unique role of IL-7 as a prime factor in T cell development and differentiation.
Texto completo:
1
Coleções:
01-internacional
Base de dados:
MEDLINE
Assunto principal:
Timo
/
Linfócitos T
/
Transdução de Sinais
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Diferenciação Celular
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Interleucina-7
Limite:
Animals
/
Humans
Idioma:
En
Ano de publicação:
2012
Tipo de documento:
Article