Fig. 3 TCR strength translates into diverse gene profiles

Levels of TCR signal strength induce the proportional expression of IRF4-BATF complexes. Upon low-level stimulation, low levels of IRF4-BATF complexes preferentially bind high-affinity sites around high sensitivity genes. Therefore, a fraction of IRF4-BATF-dependent genes is expressed in response to low TCR signal strength. Increased TCR signal strength leads to the accumulation of IRF4-BATF complexes. An abundance of complexes can result in the binding of low-affinity AICE sites. Subsequently, lowsensitivity genes are induced. Therefore, gene expression profiles are regulated by TCR signal strength and the affinity of enhancer sites for IRF4-BATF complexes.