Abstract
Abstract Thymic epithelial cells (TECs) are an essential component of the thymic microenvironment and are necessary for the production of normal T cells. Cortical (cTEC) and medullary TEC (mTEC) subtypes have different functions and distinct gene expression profiles. However, the transcription regulatory network controlling the specification and differentiation of TECs is poorly understood. We have initiated a screen for additional transcription factors that are likely to be required for TEC development. This screen identified Foxg1 as a candidate regulator of thymic epithelial cell differentiation. We have found that Foxg1 is expressed in TECs before the onset of TEC differentiation and continues to be expressed in them throughout fetal development. Analysis of Foxg1 mutant mouse embryos revealed that TEC differentiation initiates normally but then becomes abnormal at E13.5-E14.5. Foxn1, which is required for the initiation of TEC differentiation, is expressed throughout fetal development in Foxg1 mutant TECs suggesting that Foxg1 activity is not necessary for Foxn1 expression. Overall, our results suggest that Foxg1 may regulate TEC differentiation independently of or in collaboration with Foxn1.
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