This project took a deep dive into the T cell biology of people with Down syndrome. T cells are an important cell in the immune system. There are numerous types and subtypes of T cells, each with specific functions in the immune response. For example, “cytotoxic T cells” kill dangerous cells infected by virus or from tumors…..

Individuals with Down syndrome have widespread immune dysregulation, including an increased risk of autoimmune and autoinflammatory skin conditions, like alopecia areata. The triplication of chromosome 21 causes activation of a branch of the immune system called interferon, known to contribute to autoimmunity…..