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The aryl hydrocarbon receptor: a perspective on potential roles in the immune system
Author(s) -
Stevens Emily A.,
Mezrich Joshua D.,
Bradfield Christopher A.
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
immunology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.297
H-Index - 133
eISSN - 1365-2567
pISSN - 0019-2805
DOI - 10.1111/j.1365-2567.2009.03054.x
Subject(s) - aryl hydrocarbon receptor , immune system , biology , thymic involution , mechanism (biology) , xenobiotic , t cell , immunology , transcription factor , genetics , gene , philosophy , biochemistry , epistemology , enzyme
Summary The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) is a protein best known for its role in mediating toxicity. Over 30 years of research has uncovered additional roles for the AHR in xenobiotic metabolism and normal vascular development. Activation of the AHR has long been known to cause immunotoxicity, including thymic involution. Recent data suggesting a role for the AHR in regulatory T‐cell (Treg) and T‐helper 17 (Th17) cell development have only added to the excitement about this biology. In this review, we will attempt to illustrate what is currently known about AHR biology in the hope that data from fields as diverse as evolutionary biology and pharmacology will help elucidate the mechanism by which AHR modifies immune responses. We also will discuss the complexities of AHR pharmacology and genetics that may influence future studies of AHR in the immune system.