Description
T helper (Th) lymphocytes differentiate into two unique subsets, Th1 and Th2, which differ both in function and in the cytokines they secrete. Th1 and Th2 cytokines promote the growth and differentiation of their subset, and inhibit the growth and differentiation of the opposing subset. T-bet (T-box expressed in T cells) is a Th1-specific T-box transcription factor that controls the expression of the Th1 cytokine, IFN-g. T-bet also converts effector Th2 cells into the opposing Th1 subset. T-bet is selectively expressed in Th1 cells. The level of T-bet expression is increased by signals mediated by the T cell receptor (TCR). IL-12 also induces an increase in the level of T-bet. T-bet was originally isolated from nuclear extracts of resting and PMA/ionomycin-activated AE7 cells. It is expressed in low levels in AE7 cells, and in increased levels in stimulated AE7