A General Survey of Thymocyte Differentiation by Transcriptional Analysis of Knockout Mouse Models

摘要: The thymus is the primary site of T cell lymphopoiesis. To undergo proper differentiation, developing cells follow a well-ordered genetic program that strictly depends on heterogeneous and highly specialized thymic microenvironment. In this study, we used microarray technology to extensively describe transcriptional events regulating alphabeta fate. get an integrated view these processes, both whole thymi from genetically engineered mice together with purified thymocytes were analyzed. Using exhibiting various perturbations developmental blockades, performed microdissection organ. Multiple signatures covering cortical medullary stroma as well thymocyte maturation intermediates clearly defined. Beyond definition histological functional (proliferation, rearrangement), provide first evidence such approach may also highlight complex cross-talk occur between maturing stroma. Our data constitute useful resource describing main gene networks set up during development step toward more systematic analysis modified mice.