TCRβ–/γδ– DN4 Cells in the Foetal Thymus
Author Information
Author(s): Hager-Theodorides Ariadne L, Rowbotham Nicola J, Outram Susan V, Dessens Johannes T, Crompton Tessa
Primary Institution: Imperial College London
Hypothesis
Can thymocyte differentiation from DN3 to DN4 occur independently of TCRβ/γδ expression?
Conclusion
The study demonstrates that differentiation from DN3 to DN4 can occur without TCRβ/γδ expression in the foetal thymus.
Supporting Evidence
- Most DN4 thymocytes in the E15.5 foetal thymus were found to be TCRβ–/γδ–.
- Normal percentages of DN4 cells were present in the Rag1–/– foetal thymus.
- Hydrocortisone treatment in adult mice allowed for the detection of TCRβ–/γδ– DN4 cells.
Takeaway
This study found that some immune cells in developing mice can grow without a specific protein that is usually needed, showing that there are different ways for these cells to develop.
Methodology
The study involved analyzing thymocyte populations in foetal and adult mice, focusing on the expression of TCRβ and γδ.
Limitations
The study primarily focuses on foetal thymocytes and may not fully represent adult thymocyte behavior.
Participant Demographics
Wild-type and Rag1–/– mice were used in the study.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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