Why is T cell selection important?
Posted August 24, 2023
T cell selection or thymopoiesis is crucial for the proper functioning of the immune system. This process occurs in the thymus and is comprised of two phases – positive selection and negative selection. Both are equally important for the proper development of thymocytes into mature T cells that are capable of killing foreign pathogens without attacking the body’s own healthy cells, causing autoimmune diseases.
T cell selection ensures that the immune system can effectively defend the body against infections while avoiding harmful attacks on its own tissues. Without proper T cell selection, the immune system would be less capable of recognizing and responding to threats, making the body more susceptible to infections and autoimmune disorders.
Positive and negative selection of the T cell repertoire: what thymocytes see and don't see