FOXP3

• OMIM: 300292

• MGI: 1891436

The Forkhead box protein P3 ( FoxP3 ) is a protein found in the cell nucleus of mammals. Is a transcription factor that binds to the DNA and hence the expression of proteins stimulated, which are used in the regulatory T cells of the immune system. Since FoxP3 is specific for native and peripherally arising regulatory T cells, can these prove it. FoxP3 is also an essential transcription factor for regulatory T - cells, it has been shown that, according to the genetic modification of mice ( knockout FoxP3 ), these regulatory T-cells do not. Homozygous FoxP3 knockout mice in which FoxP3 was permanently mutated in all cells are not capable of reproduction, whereas heterozygous animals are reduced only capable of reproduction.

In humans, mutations in the FOXP3 gene can lead to a polyendokrinen autoimmune disease. This can be explained by the fact that regulatory T cells suppress autoimmune reactions. The transcription factor FoxP3 is from the family of forkhead - box proteins.

Regulatory T cells play a role in the autoimmune diseases rheumatoid arthritis and lupus erythematosus. The excretion of Foxp3 mRNA is increased in such patients, as well as generally after kidney transplantation. FoxP3 - supply resulted in a study in mice for the prevention of cancer metastasis.