Abstract: A method for inhibiting an immune response against a transplanted cell, tissue or organ is provided. In some embodiments, the method comprises administering an immunosuppressive cell to an individual that has received a transplant, wherein the immunosuppressive cell comprises a molecular circuit comprising the following components: (a) a binding-triggered transcriptional switch (BTTS) that recognizes a cell surface marker on a cell of the transplant; and one or any combination of (b) a nucleic acid encoding a pro-inflammatory cytokine sink, (c) a nucleic acid encoding an anti-inflammatory cytokine; (d) a nucleic acid encoding an immune inhibitory receptor, or ligand thereof; and (e) a nucleic acid encoding an ectonucleotidase, and wherein binding of the BTTS to the cell surface marker activates the protein(s) encoded by one or any combination of (b)-(e) by the immunosuppressive cell, thereby inhibiting an immune response against the transplanted organ or cell.

Abstract: The present description provides improved methods for generating thymic epithelial progenitor (TEP) cells from pluripotent stem (PS) cells in vitro. Also provided are isolated invitro cell populations, compositions, and systems comprising TEP cells produced in vitro. Compositions and systems of cell populations of thymic epithelial cells and subpopulations thereof, as well as cells formed during different stages of differentiation of PS cells into thymic epithelial cells and subpopulations thereof are provided.

Abstract: Methods for generating thymic epithelial progenitor (TEP) cells from pluripotent stem (PS) cells in vitro are provided. Compositions and systems of cell populations of TEP cells as well as cells formed during different stages of differentiation of PS cells into TEP cells are also disclosed. The methods, isolated in vitro cell populations, compositions, and systems disclosed provide functional TEP cells that mature into thymic epithelial cells in vivo.

Abstract: Methods for generating thymic epithelial progenitor (TEP) cells from pluripotent stem (PS) cells in vitro are provided. Compositions and systems of cell populations of TEP cells as well as cells formed during different stages of differentiation of PS cells into TEP cells are also disclosed. The methods, isolated in vitro cell populations, compositions, and systems disclosed provide functional TEP cells that mature into thymic epithelial cells in vivo.