Abstract
V(D)J rearrangements occur within loci of TCR and BCR genes, thus generating the diversity of the AgR repertoire. In addition, interlocus V(D)J rearrangements occur, giving rise to so-called "trans-rearrangements." Such trans-rearrangements increase the diversity of the immune receptor repertoire and can be expressed as functional chimeric TCR proteins on the surface of T cells. Although chimeric receptors are not pathogenic per se, the frequency of AgR trans-rearrangements correlates with the level of genetic instability and thus could be used as a predictive biomarker for lymphoma risk.