LAUSR

The basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor Musculin (MSC, bHLHa22) is found to be highly enriched in pro-inflammatory Th17 cells, with levels correlated with stronger Th17 phenotypes. MSC is also significantly expressed in RORγt+ IL-22-producing group 3 innate lymphoid cells (ILC3s) in the Peyer™s patches (PP) of naÃve mice. While MSC+/+ mice survived DSS-induced colitis, MSC-/- mice showed more elevated pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., IL-22, IL-6, TNFα) in GALT, with severer pathology, more reduced body weight, and earlier death. A pathogenic effect of IL-22 over-production in MSC-/- mice was confirmed by the reversal of colitis symptoms with an Fc fusion containing the antagonist IL-22 binding protein (IL-22BP). This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.