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New study reveals diverse functions of thymus epithelial cells in supporting the immune system
New study reveals the diversity and function of thymic epithelial cells A recent study has gained new insights into the role of thymic epithelial cells (TECs) in the development of immune cells. The emergence of immunocompetent T cells in the thymus is crucial for effective defense against various types of pathogens such as viruses, bacteria and fungi. During this process, non-functional and self-reactive T cell clones are eliminated through positive and negative selection. The new study, conducted using multiomic analysis, reveals an impressive diversity and heterogeneity of TECs in mice. The researchers created a detailed atlas of the TEC compartment by analyzing the cellular transcriptional states and the...
New study reveals diverse functions of thymus epithelial cells in supporting the immune system
New study reveals diversity and function of thymic epithelial cells
A recent study gained new insights into the role of thymic epithelial cells (TECs) in the development of immune cells. The emergence of immunocompetent T cells in the thymus is crucial for effective defense against various types of pathogens such as viruses, bacteria and fungi. During this process, non-functional and self-reactive T cell clones are eliminated through positive and negative selection.
The new study, conducted using multiomic analysis, reveals an impressive diversity and heterogeneity of TECs in mice. The researchers created a detailed atlas of the TEC compartment by examining cellular transcriptional states and chromatin landscapes. They identified unconventional TEC subgroups that are functionally similar to already well-defined cell populations such as endocrine cells, microfold cells and muscle cells.
Particularly interesting were the endocrine TECs, which require the “Insm1” gene for their development. They play a crucial role in maintaining cell number in the thymus in a ghrelin-dependent manner. In contrast, the microfold cells require the “Spib” gene for their development and are essential for the formation of IgA plasma cells in the thymus.
Overall, the study shows that the medullary TECs have the potential to differentiate into various molecular and functionally different cell types. They not only contribute to the induction of central tolerance, but also regulate the homeostasis of other cell populations in the thymus.
The results of this study are of great importance both for basic research and for the development of new approaches in naturopathy. They illustrate the complexity of the immune system and provide new insights into the mechanisms of immune defense. Further research in this area could help develop new therapies to support the immune system.
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