Developmental potential of the earliest precursor cells from the adult mouse thymus.

• DOI: 10.1084/jem.174.6.1617
• Publication Date: 2004-06-24T07:56:10Z
• Authors: L Wu; M Antica; G R Johnson; R Scollay; K Shortman
• Keywords: Lineage markers; Precursor cell

A new, numerically minute population of cells representing the earliest T precursor in adult mouse thymus has recently been isolated. This shown to be similar bone marrow hemopoietic stem surface antigenic phenotype and express moderate levels CD4. We now show, by fluorescence-activated cell sorting intrathymic transfer irradiated mice, that this apparently homogeneous differs from multipotent expressing antigen 2 (Sca-2), it most early B lineage lacking B220 class II major histocompatibility complex expression, binds rhodamine 123 like an activated rather than a quiescent cell. Irradiated recipient mice differing at Ly 5 locus were used compare developmental potential these precursors with cells. Only product detected when was transferred back into thymus. However, intravenously, displayed capacity develop both lymphoid marrow, spleen, lymph nodes, but no donor-derived myeloid detected. The absence erythroid activity confirmed showing unable or spleen colonies on intravenous form agar culture. These findings indicate become restricted (or strongly biased) development, not exclusively lymphocytes.