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Early defects in human T-cell development severely affect distribution and maturation of thymic stromal cells: possible implications for the pathophysiology of Omenn syndrome

Lookup NU author(s): Professor Andrew GenneryORCiD

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Abstract

Thymocytes and thymic epithelial cell (TEC) cross-talk is crucial to preserve thymic architecture and function, including maturation of TECs and dendritic cells, and induction of mechanisms of central tolerance. We have analyzed thymic maturation and organization in 9 infants with various genetic defects leading to complete or partial block in T-cell development. Profound abnormalities of TEC differentiation ( with lack of AIRE expression) and severe reduction of thymic dendritic cells were identified in patients with T-negative severe combined immunodeficiency, reticular dysgenesis, and Omenn syndrome. The latter also showed virtual absence of thymic Foxp3(+) T cells. In contrast, an IL2RG-R222C hypomorphic mutation permissive for T-cell development allowed for TEC maturation, AIRE expression, and Foxp3(+) T cells. Our data provide evidence that severe defects of thymopoiesis impinge on TEC homeostasis and may affect deletional and nondeletional mechanisms of central tolerance, thus favoring immune dysreactive manifestations, as in Omenn syndrome. (Blood. 2009; 114:105-108)


Publication metadata

Author(s): Poliani PL, Facchetti F, Ravanini M, Gennery AR, Villa A, Roifman CM, Notarangelo LD

Publication type: Article

Publication status: Published

Journal: Blood

Year: 2009

Volume: 114

Issue: 1

Pages: 105-108

ISSN (print): 0006-4971

ISSN (electronic): 1528-0020

Publisher: American Society of Hematology

URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1182/blood-2009-03-211029

DOI: 10.1182/blood-2009-03-211029


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Funding

Funder referenceFunder name
P01AI076210National Institutes of Health

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