T-cell signalling and immune system disorders

Expert Rev Mol Med. 2005 Dec 19;7(29):1-29. doi: 10.1017/S1462399405010264.

Abstract

T-cell receptor (TCR) engagement initiates intracellular signalling cascades that lead to T-cell proliferation, cytokine production and differentiation into effector cells. These cascades comprise an array of protein-tyrosine kinases, phosphatases, GTP-binding proteins and adaptor proteins that regulate generic and specialised functions. The integration of these signals is essential for the normal development, homeostasis and function of T cells. Defects in a single mediator can produce T cells that are unable to participate fully in an immune response and/or that mount an inappropriate response, which leads to immunodeficiency, autoimmunity or leukaemia/lymphomas. This review highlights some of the key players in T-cell signalling and their involvement in the development of various clinical disease states. Some of these immune-specific signalling proteins are attractive potential targets in the development of therapies to augment T-cell responses to antigen or tumours, and to treat immune cell disorders.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adaptor Proteins, Signal Transducing / metabolism
  • Animals
  • Cytokines / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Immune System Diseases / immunology*
  • Immune System Diseases / therapy
  • Mice
  • Phosphotransferases / metabolism
  • Protein Tyrosine Phosphatases / metabolism
  • Signal Transduction / immunology*
  • T-Lymphocytes / immunology*

Substances

  • Adaptor Proteins, Signal Transducing
  • Cytokines
  • Phosphotransferases
  • Protein Tyrosine Phosphatases