Requirement for the transcription factor LSIRF/IRF4 for mature B and T lymphocyte function.

Mittrücker, H W; Matsuyama, T; Grossman, A; Kündig, T M; Potter, J; Shahinian, A; Wakeham, A; Patterson, B et al. · Science · 1997

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

Lymphocyte-specific interferon regulatory factor (LSIRF) (now called IRF4) is a transcription factor expressed only in lymphocytes. Mice deficient in IRF4 showed normal distribution of B and T lymphocyes at 4 to 5 weeks of age but developed progressive generalized lymphadenopathy. IRF4-deficient mice exhibited a profound reduction in serum immunoglobulin concentrations and did not mount detectable antibody responses. T lymphocyte function was also impaired in vivo; these mice could not generate cytotoxic or antitumor responses. Thus, IRF4 is essential for the function and homeostasis of both mature B and mature T lymphocytes.

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