TRECs

Full Definition

T-cell receptor excision circles (TRECs) are stable circular DNA molecules produced during T-cell development in the thymus. They serve as reliable markers of recent thymic emigrants and are used in newborn screening programs to detect severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) and other T-cell lymphopenia conditions. Low or absent TRECs in dried blood spots indicate impaired thymic function or T-cell development.

Usage

Usage note: Plural form TRECs is standard; singular TREC used when referring to individual molecules.

In Context

• "The newborn screening program detected abnormally low TRECs, prompting urgent immunologic evaluation." — Laboratory report
• "TRECs quantification has revolutionized early detection of primary immunodeficiencies in infants." — Research publication