Thymic Development and Selection of T Lymphocytes

Outlining cutting-edge knowledge of the T cell-manufacturing thymus, a primal organ common to all vertebrates, this book by leading researchers covers key aspects of thymopoiesis and opens promising new vistas in our understanding of autoimmune diseases.

The thymus is an evolutionarily ancient primary lymphoid organ common to all vertebrates in which T cell development takes place. Failing thymus function is associated with immunodeficiency and/or autoimmunity. In this volume, leading experts provide a comprehensive overview of recent advances in thymopoiesis research. The chapters cover the development of the thymic epithelial microenvironment, address the formation of a diverse and self-tolerant repertoire of T cell receptors as the basis for cellular immunity, discuss the mechanisms by which progenitor cells colonize the thymus and detail the molecular basis for T lineage decisions. The reviews illustrate the important role of the multifaceted process of thymopoiesis for adaptive immunity.

Written by leading experts in the field Addresses key aspects of the process of thymopoiesis Offers perspectives for understanding immunodeficiency and autoimmune diseases Includes supplementary material: sn.pub/extras

Inhalt

Development and Function of Cortical Thymic Epithelial Cells.- Mechanisms of Thymus Medulla Development And Function.- Self-peptides in TCR Repertoire Selection and Peripheral T Cell Function.- Central Tolerance Induction.- Trafficking to the Thymus.- The CD4/CD8 Lineages: Central Decisions and Peripheral Modifications for T Lymphocytes.