Journal article

Deciphering the epigenetic code of T lymphocytes

Rhys S Allan, Stephen L Nutt

IMMUNOLOGICAL REVIEWS | WILEY | Published : 2014

Abstract

The multiple lineages and differentiation states that constitute the T-cell compartment all derive from a common thymic precursor. These distinct transcriptional states are maintained both in time and after multiple rounds of cell division by the concerted actions of a small set of lineage-defining transcription factors that act in conjunction with a suite of chromatin-modifying enzymes to activate, repress, and fine-tune gene expression. These chromatin modifications collectively provide an epigenetic code that allows the stable and heritable maintenance of the T-cell phenotype. Recently, it has become apparent that the epigenetic code represents a therapeutic target for a variety of immune..

View full abstract

Grants

Awarded by National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia


Funding Acknowledgements

This study was supported by a grant from the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia (APP1049307) and an American Asthma Foundation Senior Award. R. S. A. and S.L.N. are supported by Australian Research Council Future Fellowships. This study was made possible through Victorian State Government Operational Infrastructure Support and Australian Government NHMRC IRIIS. The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.