Identification of novel genes regulated by IL-12, IL-4, or TGF-β during the early polarization of CD4+ lymphocytes

Th1 and Th2 cells arise from a common precursor cell in response to triggering through the TCR and cytokine receptors for IL-12 or IL-4. This leads to activation of complex signaling pathways, which are not known in detail. Disturbances in the balance between type 1 and type 2 responses can lead to certain immune-mediated diseases. Thus, it is important to understand how Th1 and Th2 cells are generated. To clarify the mechanisms as to how IL-12 and IL-4 induce Th1 and Th2 differentiation and how TGF-beta can inhibit this process, we have used oligonucleotide arrays to examine the early polarization of Th1 and Th2 cells in the presence and absence of TGF-beta. In addition to genes previously implicated in the process, we have identified 20 genes with various known and unknown functions not previously associated with Th1/2 polarization. We have also further determined which genes are targets of IL-12, IL-4, and TGF-beta regulation in the cells induced to polarize to Th1 and Th2 directions. Interestingly, a subset of the genes was coregulated by IL-12 or IL-4 and TGF-beta. Among these genes are candidates that may modulate the balance between Th1 and Th2 responses.