Figure 2. The function of AIRE. In normal thymus, AIRE regulates expression of self-antigens resulting in deletion of autoreactive T-cells. In APS1 thymus, the defect of AIRE expression causes insufficient presentation of self-antigens and autoreactive T cells escape from thymus. Abbreviations: mTEC, Medullary thymic epithelial cells; TEC: Thymic epithelial cells Reprinted with permission Ref:133