New study reveals a variety of functions of thymus epithelial cells in supporting the immune system

New study reveals a variety of functions of thymus epithelial cells in supporting the immune system
New study reveals the diversity and function of the thymusepithele cells
In a current study, new findings on the role of the thymus epithelial cells (TECs) were gained in the development of immune cells. The development of immunocompetent T cells in the thymus is crucial for effective defense against different types of pathogens such as viruses, bacteria and fungi. During this process, non-functional and self-revival T cell clones are eliminated by positive and negative selection.
The new study carried out with multiomical analysis reveals an impressive variety and heterogeneity of the TECs in mice. The researchers created a detailed atlas of the TEC comment by examining the cellular transcription states and the chromatin landscapes. They identified unconventional TEC subgroups that functionally similar to the already well-defined cell populations such as endocrine cells, microfold cells and muscle cells.
The endocrine tecs that need the gene "InsM1" for their development were particularly interesting. They play a crucial role in maintaining the number of cells in the thymus in a ghrelin -dependent way. In contrast, the microfold cells need the gene "Spib" for their development and are essential for the development of IGA plasma cells in the thymus.
Overall, the study shows that the medullary TECs have the potential to differentiate themselves into different 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 for both basic research and the development of new approaches in naturopathy. They illustrate the complexity of the immune system and provide new knowledge about the mechanisms of immune defense. Further research in this area could help develop new therapies to support the immune system.
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