Epigenetic Regulation of the Immune System 2.0

Dear Colleagues,

The term “epigenetics” was first introduced by Conrad Waddington in 1942. For a long half century, its significance in gene expression, cell differentiation and heritability was not quite clear. However, the modern technologies of the beginning of the 21^st century have opened a new area of research. Epigenetic modifications of the genome allow cells to react to external signals by alternation of gene activity via the modification of gene expression. The epigenome controls the accessibility of DNA for transcription factors that regulate the level of gene expression. In this way, epigenetic regulations are responsible for the cell differentiation that is so critical in the immune system.

Innate and adaptive immune responses are components of an integrated system of host defense in which numerous cells and molecules function cooperatively. Immune responses are regulated by a system of positive feedback loops that amplify the reaction, and by control mechanisms that prevent inappropriate or pathologic reactions. All regulations are under the control of epigenetic mechanisms.

Immunity declines during ageing, as shown by the increased susceptibility to infection. The deterioration of immune reactions mirrors the alteration of cell function, particularly that of T lymphocytes. With aging there is a progressive accumulation of epigenetic damage as a direct consequence of evolved limitations in the genetic and epigenetic settings of maintenance and repair functions.

We encourage authors to submit research and review papers about epigenetic modulation in various immune responses. We believe that this Special Issue will reflect the new exciting era of epigenetics and show its role in immune function.

Dr. Marie Černá
Guest Editor

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• immune response
• innate immunity
• adaptive immunity
• cell differentiation
• cellular senescence
• gene expression
• DNA methylation
• histone modifications
• RNA-mediated gene silencing

• Epigenetic Regulation of the Immune System in Biomedicines (7 articles)