Development of Jurkat lymphocytes as a model to study the role of Zn2+ in T-cell immune function

Undergraduate Honors Thesis

Citations

Citeable URL: https://scholar.colorado.edu/concern/undergraduate_honors_theses/9k41zd85n

Abstract

Zn²⁺ is an essential micronutrient, and the effect of Zn²⁺ deficiency is particularly evident in the diminished functioning of the immune system. There is growing evidence of Zn²⁺’s involvement in immune function and its potential as a signaling species. Although the current literature supports importance of Zn²⁺ in the function of all immune cell types, we chose to focus our study on T cells particularly because of their role in orchestrating continued adaptive immune response. FRET based Zn²⁺ sensors have been used to reliably visualize Zn²⁺ in adherent cell types. We sought to develop a model system using Jurkat lymphocytes to apply these tools to parse out role of Zn²⁺ in T cell behavior. Over the course of the study, we optimized methods to transfect these tools into Jurkats, perform imaging, and ensure sensors were functioning properly. Additionally, we confirmed stimulation of the Jurkat cells to ensure proper T cell activation. We find that T cells have more free zinc than adherent cells, and that we can successfully stimulate them. With these tools in hand we hope to provide insight into Zn²⁺’s role in T cell function.

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