Key Points:

– T cells have a nuclear receptor called retinoic acid receptor alpha.
– This receptor not only controls gene expression programs in the nucleus but also operates outside the nucleus.
– The retinoic acid receptor alpha helps coordinate the early events triggered at the cell surface that lead to T cell activation.
– This discovery sheds light on the complex mechanisms that allow T cells to effectively fight pathogens and destroy cancer cells.

The Surprising Role of Retinoic Acid Receptor Alpha

In a new study, researchers have uncovered a surprising role for a nuclear receptor in T cells. Known as retinoic acid receptor alpha, this receptor was originally thought to control gene expression programs within the cell nucleus. However, it appears that this receptor also plays a crucial role outside the nucleus, specifically at the cell surface.

Coordinating T Cell Activation

The researchers found that the retinoic acid receptor alpha works to coordinate the early events that occur at the cell surface, leading to T cell activation. This discovery is significant as it provides valuable insights into the intricate mechanisms that allow T cells to effectively combat pathogens and eliminate cancer cells.

Hot take:

Who knew that T cells had a nuclear receptor that likes to step out of the nucleus and coordinate the party happening on the cell surface? This retinoic acid receptor alpha is like the life of the T cell activation shindig, making sure everything is running smoothly. It’s a reminder that even in the world of cells, there’s always a surprise waiting to be discovered.

Original article: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2023/08/230818134137.htm