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Defining the parameters necessary for T-cell recognition of ligands that vary in potency

  • Immunology at Emory University
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Abstract

Identification of the mechanisms by which a T cell is able to sense ligands of varying strength, such as those that mediate tumor growth, viral evasion, and autoimmunity, is a major goal of T-cell activation studies. In recent years, parameters important for T-cell activation by strong ligands (agonists) are beginning to be characterized. Here, we review our current work on the factors that are critical for T-cell activation by ligands that differ in potency, typified by full agonists, weak agonists, partial agonists, and antagonists. Furthermore, we discuss mechanisms contributing to the lack of a full range of effector functions observed in T cells following their stimulation by suboptimal ligands. Finally, we present strategies for the design of peptide-based therapies to control activation of polyclonal, autoreactive T-cell populations.

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Author notes

  1. Brian D. Evavold

    Present address: Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University, 1510 Clifton Rd, 30322, Atlanta, GA

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University, 1510 Clifton Rd, 30322, Atlanta, GA

    Neely E. Kilgore, Mandy L. Ford, Carrie D. Margot, Daniel S. Jones & Peter Reichardt

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  1. Neely E. Kilgore
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  2. Mandy L. Ford
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  3. Carrie D. Margot
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  4. Daniel S. Jones
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  5. Peter Reichardt
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  6. Brian D. Evavold
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Kilgore, N.E., Ford, M.L., Margot, C.D. et al. Defining the parameters necessary for T-cell recognition of ligands that vary in potency. Immunol Res 29, 29–39 (2004). https://doi.org/10.1385/IR:29:1-3:029

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