This Review describes the process of positive and negative selection of developing T cells in the thymus and the role of the autoimmune regulator (AIRE) in the presentation of tissue-restricted antigens. Furthermore, it addresses how mutations of this gene lead to the failure to eliminate autoreactive T cells, which can lead to clinical autoimmune syndromes.
- Eitan M. Akirav
- Nancy H. Ruddle
- Kevan C. Herold