Developmentally regulated expression of T cell receptor beta chain variable domains in immature thymocytes.

• DOI: 10.1084/jem.166.2.577
• Publication Date: 2004-06-24T07:56:10Z
• Authors: R C Budd; G C Miescher; R C Howe; R K Lees; C Bron; H R MacDonald
• Keywords: BETA (programming language); Thymocyte

A minor subset of immature (CD4-,8-) thymocytes that lack expression the B2A2 antigen was found to express low levels surface TCR protein as detected by mAbs F23.1 and KJ16 (reacting with products V beta 8 gene family). Interestingly, F23.1/KJ16 determinants were expressed on a two- three-fold higher proportion B2A2- than mature lymph node T cells in four independent haplotypes. When expanded short-term culture PMA calcium ionophore, retained their overexpression showed fivefold elevated level (relative node) 8-specific mRNA. Taken together, these findings suggest genes, like Ig is developmentally regulated.