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Sequence diversity of T cell receptor alpha chain transcripts from BALB/c thymus
M E Roth1, B A Tjoa, C J Schlueter
1Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois, Urbana 61801.
Molecular Immunology
|December 1, 1992
Summary
T cell receptor diversity arises from multiple mechanisms, including gene segment deletion and addition. Analysis of alpha chain transcripts reveals specific patterns of diversity generation in BALB/c mice.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- T cell receptors (TCRs) exhibit significant diversity, primarily in the region analogous to immunoglobulin CDR3.
- Understanding the mechanisms generating TCR diversity is crucial for immune system research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the mechanisms contributing to T cell receptor alpha chain diversity.
- To analyze the J alpha repertoire and VJ junctional diversity in BALB/c mice.
Main Methods:
- Sequencing of alpha chain transcripts from BALB/c thymus.
- Analysis of V alpha J alpha combinations across different developmental stages.
- Comparison of novel and published J alpha sequences.
Main Results:
- Most TCR diversity is concentrated at the 5' end of the alpha chain, suggesting antigen-binding site involvement.
- Unequal deletion of bases from V and J gene segments, with more deletions from J genes.
- Frequent addition of bases at junctions in adult mice, indicative of terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase activity.
- Identification of junctional sequences also present at the 5' end of J genes.
Conclusions:
- Alpha chain gene diversification involves multiple mechanisms, including variable deletion and addition of nucleotides.
- These findings contribute to a comprehensive understanding of T cell receptor repertoire generation.