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T cells require two stimulatory signals to become fully activated. The first of these signals is delivered after the TCR binds its cognate peptide: MHC complex, while the second signal can be achieved through ligation of one of many costimulatory receptors, such as VLA-4. Two intracellular non-receptor tyrosine kinases activated following both TCR and VLA-4 ligation are FAK and Pyk2. We aim to characterize the kinetics, mechanisms, and functions of FAK and Pyk2 as they relate to human T cell activation following TCR and VLA-4 engagement. Ultimately, these studies will provide insight as to whether FAK and Pyk2 could serve as useful therapeutic targets in the treatment of a variety of immunologic diseases.
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