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Updated: Aug 21, 2026

Methods to Assess Beta Cell Death Mediated by Cytotoxic T Lymphocytes
Published on: June 16, 2011
T cell division and death are segregated by mutation of TCRbeta chain constant domains
Emma Teixeiro1, Mark A Daniels, Barbara Hausmann
1Laboratory of Transplantation Immunology, Department of Research, University Hospital-Basel, Hebelstrasse 20, CH-4031 Basel, Switzerland.
Abstract:
We have studied the role of the T cell receptor (TCR) beta chain transmembrane and cytoplasmic domains (betaTM/Cyto) in T cell signaling. Upon antigen stimulation, T lymphocytes expressing a TCR with mutant and betaTM and Cyto domains accumulate in large numbers and are specifically defective in undergoing activation-induced cell death (AICD). The mutant TCR poorly recruits the protein adaptor Carma-1 and is subsequently impaired in activating NF-kappaB. This signaling defect leads to a reduced expression of Fas ligand (FasL) and to a reduction in AICD. These beta chain domains are involved in discriminating cell division and apoptosis.
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