TOX2

TOX2, alias TOX2, KIAA0808, TOX1235, etc. TOX2 is a member of the high mobility group protein (HMG) superfamily, a structure-dependent DNA-binding protein that functions as a transcription factor. It regulates the transcriptional expression of genes by binding DNA and altering chromatin accessibility.TOX2 plays a role in the development and differentiation of T cells, especially in the formation of follicular helper T cells (Tfh). In addition, TOX2 is involved in a variety of cellular processes, including cytokine production, cell proliferation and apoptosis, etc.

The biological significance of TOX2 is mainly reflected in its role in the regulation of T cell responses. During the development of Tfh cells, TOX2 promotes the expression of Tfh-related genes, such as Bcl6, Cxcr5, etc., through interactions with transcription factors such as Bcl6 and STAT3.The expression of TOX2 is regulated by a variety of signaling pathways, including the IL-6/IL-21-STAT3 signaling pathway. In addition, TOX2 is associated with T cell depletion, and it affects T cell function and persistence by regulating the expression of genes associated with T cell depletion, such as PD-1, etc. Abnormalities in TOX2 function may be associated with autoimmune diseases and chronic infections, etc. Therefore, TOX2 is a potential target in immunological research and treatment of related diseases.