Two research groups, headed by Murphy and Nussenzweig, have identified the zinc-finger transcription factor ZBTB46 (also known as BTBD4) as being selectively expressed by classical dendritic cells (cDCs) and their committed progenitors. ZBTB46 was not expressed by monocytes, macrophages, plasmacytoid DCs or other immune cell lineages. Although ZBTB46 is not required for cDC development, it enforces cDC lineage restriction by repressing the expression of alternative myeloid growth factor receptors. Furthermore, the generation of mice in which cDCs were specifically depleted showed that these cells are only partially required for the initiation of immunity against infection and tumours. These mice, and others generated by the two groups, will be useful tools in helping to delineate the exact functions of cDCs in the immune system.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH PAPERS
Satpathy, A. T. et al. Zbtb46 expression distinguishes classical dendritic cells and their committed progenitors from other immune lineages. J. Exp. Med. 209, 1135–1152 (2012)Article
Meredith, M. M. et al. Expression of the zinc finger transcription factor zDC (Zbtb46, Btbd4) defines the classical dendritic cell lineage. J. Exp. Med. 209, 1153–1165 (2012)Article
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Leavy, O. Distinguishing classical dendritic cells. Nat Rev Immunol 12, 476 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1038/nri3257
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/nri3257
