The long term objective of this research proposal is to understand at the molecular and cellular levels how the immune recognition is controlled during the organism's development.
Specific aims are: 1) to understand the molecular mechanism of the tissue-specific enhancer associated with the immunoglobulin gene locus, 2) to identify the cis- and trans-acting elements involved in the developmentally controlled expression of the T cell receptor Alpha and Beta genes and the T cell-specific gene Gamma, 3) to identify, isolate, and characterize the genes and gene products for the putative receptor on the immature T cells involved in the intrathymic selection of self MHC-restricted T cells. For these purposes we will use a variety of recombinant DNA, DNA sequencing, transfection, cell-free transcription, hybridoma, and transgenic mice techniques as well as more conventional biochemical techniques for proteins and nucleic acids. Since the B and T cell receptors play the pivotal roles in the functioning of the immune system, the vertebrate's major body defense device, through understanding of the developmentally controlled expression of the genes is the basis on which a variety of diagnostic and therapeutic methods can be developed. In addition, the information on the structure and function of anti MHC receptor will be useful in the clinical control of the allograft rejection.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)
Type
Method to Extend Research in Time (MERIT) Award (R37)
Project #
5R37AI017879-08
Application #
3480932
Study Section
Allergy and Immunology Study Section (ALY)
Project Start
1981-06-01
Project End
1991-05-31
Budget Start
1988-06-01
Budget End
1989-05-31
Support Year
8
Fiscal Year
1988
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Department
Type
Organized Research Units
DUNS #
City
Cambridge
State
MA
Country
United States
Zip Code
02139
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