Polymorphisms in the IL-2R$\alpha$chain gene are associated with multiple autoimmune diseases, including type 1 diabetes, vitiligo, multiple sclerosis, Crohn's disease, autoimmune thyroiditis, and juvenile arthritis. One hypothesis for this striking list of disease associations with polymorphisms in the IL-2R$\alpha$ chain gene is that these alterations affect the function of FoxP3+ regulatory CD4 T cells. If this was the case, one would expect that disease-associated alleles of the IL-2R$\alpha$ chain gene would:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The correct answer is based on the role of IL-2 and its receptor in the function of FoxP3+ regulatory CD4 T cells. IL-2 is crucial for the survival and function of these cells. Polymorphisms that affect the IL-2 receptor could impair the ability of these cells to respond to IL-2, leading to reduced regulatory function and, consequently, an increased risk of autoimmune diseases.

Polymorphisms in the IL-2R α\alphaα Chain Gene Are Associated with Multiple Autoimmune Diseases, Including Type

Polymorphisms in the IL-2R $\alpha$ Chain Gene Are Associated with Multiple Autoimmune Diseases, Including Type