Combined deletion of Id2 and Id3 genes reveals multiple roles for E proteins in invariant NKT cell development and expansion.

ABSTRACT: The invariant NKT (iNKT) cells represent a unique group of αβ T cells that have been classified based on their exclusive usage of the invariant Vα14Jα18 TCRα-chain and their innate-like effector function. Thus far, the transcriptional programs that control Vα14Jα18 TCRα rearrangements and the population size of iNKT cells are still incompletely defined. E protein transcription factors have been shown to play necessary roles in the development of multiple T cell lineages, including iNKT cells. In this study, we examined E protein functions in T cell development through combined deletion of genes encoding E protein inhibitors Id2 and Id3. Deletion of Id2 and Id3 in T cell progenitors resulted in a partial block at the pre-TCR selection checkpoint and a dramatic increase in numbers of iNKT ce

SUBMITTER: Li J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3837387 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature