FOXP3-dependent repression of a chromatin remodellimg enzyme ensures regulatory T-cell commitment

Regulatory T (Treg) cells are involved in immune homeostasis and prevention of autoimmunity. Treg cells are characterized by the expression of the transcription factor FOXP3. Mutations in FOXP3 cause severe autoimmunity in mice and humans. However, the FOXP3-dependent molecular mechanisms leading to this severe phenotype are not well understood. Here we introduce a genome-wide transcription study of CD4+ T cells under different treatments in comparison to regulatory T cells. This study revealed a specific downregulation of SATB1 in Treg cells. Freshly isolated CD4+CD25intCD127+ T cells were analysed as well as CD4+ T cells and CD4+CD25+ Treg cells treated as indicated.