Identification of global regulators of T-helper cell lineage specification

Background Activation and differentiation of T-helper (Th) cells into Th1 and Th2 types is a complex process orchestrated by distinct gene activation programs engaging a number of genes. This process is crucial for a robust immune response and an imbalance might lead to disease states such as autoimmune diseases or allergy. Therefore, identification of genes involved in this process is paramount to further understand the pathogenesis of, and design interventions for, immune-mediated diseases.