Abstract
Using a sensitive molecular marker for positive selection, the appearance of a particular functional TCR alpha chain sequence in cells from mice bearing a transgenic beta chain, we address several aspects of intrathymic T cell development. First, by examining specific TCR prior to and after maturation, we demonstrate how a restricted TCR repertoire is positively selected from a highly diverse immature TCR repertoire. Second, since this molecular marker is enriched in cells progressing toward the CD4 lineage and depleted in cells progressing toward the CD8 lineage, a map of the developmental pathway of alphabeta thymocytes can be inferred. Third, the first cells that show clear signs of positive intrathymic selection are identified.
Publication types
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
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Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
MeSH terms
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Amino Acid Sequence
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Animals
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Antigens, CD / analysis
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Antigens, Differentiation, T-Lymphocyte / analysis
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CD4-Positive T-Lymphocytes / chemistry
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CD4-Positive T-Lymphocytes / immunology
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CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes / immunology
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Cell Differentiation / genetics
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Cell Differentiation / immunology
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Immunization
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Lectins, C-Type
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Lymphocyte Activation / genetics
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Lymphocyte Activation / immunology
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Mice
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Mice, Transgenic
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Molecular Probes
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Peptides / immunology
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Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell, alpha-beta / immunology
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T-Lymphocytes / immunology
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T-Lymphocytes / physiology*
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Thymus Gland / chemistry
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Thymus Gland / cytology
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Thymus Gland / immunology
Substances
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Antigens, CD
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Antigens, Differentiation, T-Lymphocyte
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CD69 antigen
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Lectins, C-Type
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Molecular Probes
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Peptides
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Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell, alpha-beta