A new dexamethasone-induced gene of the leucine zipper family protects T lymphocytes from TCR/CD3-activated cell death.

摘要: By comparing mRNA species expressed in dexamethasone (DEX)-treated and untreated murine thymocytes, we have identified a gene, glucocorticoid-induced leucine zipper (GILZ), encoding new member of the family. GILZ was found normal lymphocytes from thymus, spleen, lymph nodes, whereas low or no expression detected other nonlymphoid tissues, including brain, kidney, liver. In thymocytes peripheral T cells, gene is induced by DEX. Furthermore, selectively protects cells apoptosis treatment with anti-CD3 monoclonal antibody but not apoptotic stimuli. This antiapoptotic effect correlates inhibition Fas ligand expression. Thus, candidate transcription factor involved regulation cells.