Computational estimation of clonal diversity in autoimmunity

Immunol Cell Biol. 2024 Sep;102(8):692-701. doi: 10.1111/imcb.12801. Epub 2024 Jul 15.

Abstract

Diversity is the cornerstone of the adaptive immune system, crucial for its effectiveness against constantly evolving pathogens that pose threats to higher vertebrates. Accurately measuring and interpreting this diversity presents challenges for immunologists, as changes in diversity and clonotype composition can tip the balance between protective immunity and autoimmunity. In this review, we present the current methods commonly used to measure diversity from single-cell T-cell receptor and B-cell receptor sequencing. We also discuss two case studies where single-cell sequencing and diversity estimations have led to breakthroughs in autoimmune disease discovery and therapeutic innovation, and reflect upon the necessity and importance of accurately defining and measuring lymphocyte diversity in these contexts.

Keywords: Autoimmune; diversity; immune repertoire; single cell.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Autoimmune Diseases / immunology
  • Autoimmunity*
  • B-Lymphocytes / immunology
  • Computational Biology / methods
  • Genetic Variation
  • Humans
  • Receptors, Antigen, B-Cell / genetics
  • Receptors, Antigen, B-Cell / metabolism
  • Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell* / genetics
  • Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell* / immunology
  • Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell* / metabolism
  • Single-Cell Analysis*

Substances

  • Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell
  • Receptors, Antigen, B-Cell