Cellular and matrix interactions during the development of T lymphocytes

Brazilian Journal of Medical and Biological Research

关键词: extracellular matrix;    epithelial cells;    fibroblasts;    integrins;    interleukin-7;    thymus;   

DOI  :  10.1590/S0100-879X1999000500008

来源: DOAJ

【 摘 要 】

The thymus contains an extensive extracellular matrix. Although thymocytes express integrins capable of binding to matrix molecules, the functional significance of the matrix for T cell development is uncertain. We have shown that the matrix is associated with thymic fibroblasts which are required for the CD44+ CD25+ stage of double negative (CD4-8-) thymocyte development. The survival of cells at this stage is dependent on IL-7 and we propose that the role of fibroblasts is to present, via the matrix, IL-7 to developing T cells.

【 授权许可】

Unknown