Cell death and thymic tolerance

Abstract

The differentiation of hematopoietic precursors into the many functionally distinct T-cell types produced by the thymus is a complex process. It proceeds through a series of stages orchestrated by a variety of thymic microenvironments that shape the T-cell developmental processes. Numerous cytokine and cell surface receptors direct thymocyte differentiation but the primary determinant of cell fate is the engagement of the T-cell antigen receptor (TCR). The strength of the TCR signal and the maturation stage of the thymocyte receiving it can direct the various differentiation programs or, alternatively, end the process by inducing cell death. The regulation of thymocyte death is critical for ..