What occurs in T cells as they rearrange genes in the thymus?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the process that occurs in T cells during gene rearrangement in the thymus, specifically regarding the effects on their functionality and identity.
Answer
Gene rearrangement leads to T-cell receptor formation and subsequent selection in the thymus.
Gene rearrangement in T cells leads to the synthesis of T-cell receptors, followed by their undergoing rounds of positive and negative selection in the thymus.
Answer for screen readers
Gene rearrangement in T cells leads to the synthesis of T-cell receptors, followed by their undergoing rounds of positive and negative selection in the thymus.
More Information
The process of gene rearrangement ensures a diverse repertoire of TCRs necessary for the immune system to recognize various antigens. Positive selection ensures that the T cells can bind to self-MHC molecules, while negative selection eliminates those that bind too strongly to self-antigens, preventing autoimmunity.
Tips
A common mistake is to overlook the role of the RAG1 and RAG2 genes in initiating the recombination process necessary for TCR gene rearrangement.
Sources
- Generation of lymphocytes in bone marrow and thymus - NCBI - ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- T-cell receptor gene rearrangement - Immunobiology - NCBI Bookshelf - ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- T Cell Development - .nau.edu
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