Physiology Seminar: Checkpoints and balances: Regulation of T cell development and function

T cells play an essential role in fighting infections and cancer, but inappropriate targeting of normal cells can contribute to a host of autoimmune disorders. To recognize diseased and infected cells, T cells require a diverse repertoire of antigen receptors that distinguish foreign and mutated antigens from normal self-peptides. Antigen receptor diversity is generated during T cell development in the thymus. Within the thymus, rigorous selection processes accompany T cell differentiation to ensure the functionality and self-tolerance of the unique antigen receptors expressed on individual T cells. Once mature T cells leave the thymus, they encounter a battery of additional checkpoints that regulate their activation in the peripheral lymphoid organs. We will discuss the mechanisms in place that regulate T cell development and function.

This seminar will take place both in-person and online. Details in attached poster