Description
Differentiation of naive CD8 T cells into cytotoxic effector cells requires three distinct signals- antigen (signal 1), costimulation -B7-1 (signal 2) and cytokine, either interleukin-12 or interferon-a/b (signal 3). Interaction of naive CD8 T cells with antigen and B7-1 programs cell division and proliferation whereas the presence of cytokines- IL-12 or IFNa/b promote survival, differentiation and memory establishment. In the absence of signal 3, the cells interacting with antigen/B7-1 undergo tolerance induction. The objective of this study was to elucidate the mechanisms how the provision of signal 3 promotes differentiation and averts tolerance induction in CD8 T cells. Trichostatin A is a pharmacological agent that inhibits histone deacetylase activity, hence regulating chromatin structure and gene expression and differentiation in many cell types. Gene signature profiles of IL-12, IFNa/b and trichostatin A stimulated cells were compared to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of gene regulation.