T-bet fate mapping identifies a novel ILC1-ILC2 subset in vivo

Abstract

Innate lymphoid cells (ILC) play a critical role in regulating immune responses at mucosal surfaces. Various subsets exist resembling T cell lineages defined by the expression of specific transcription factors. Thus, T-bet is expressed in ILC1 and Th1 cells. In order to further understand the functional roles of T-bet in ILC, we generated a fate-mapping mouse model that permanently marks cells and their progeny that are expressing, or have ever expressed T-bet. Here we have identified and characterised a novel ILC with characteristics of ILC1 and ILC2 that are "fate-mapped" for T-bet expression and arise early in neonatal life prior to establishment of a mature microbiome. These ILC1-ILC2 cells are critically dependent on T-bet and are able to express type 1 and type 2 cytokines at steady state, but not in the context of inflammation. These findings refine our understanding of ILC lineage regulation and stability and have important implications for the understanding of ILC biology at mucosal surfaces. SUMMARYInnate lymphoid cells (ILC) play a critical role in regulating immune responses at mucosal surfaces. Three distinct ILC groups have been described according to expression of subset defining transcription factors and other markers. In this study we characterize a novel ILC subset with characteristics of group 1 and group 2 ILC in vivo.