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Mistaken notions about natural killer cells
1Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Rheumatology Division, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, USA. yokoyama@im.wustl.edu
Nature Immunology
|April 22, 2008
Summary
Natural killer (NK) cells have evolved from immunological outcasts to key players in innate immunity. This perspective reviews the unexpected journey and progress in understanding these vital immune cells.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cellular Biology
- Innate Immunity
Background:
- Natural killer (NK) cells were identified over 30 years ago.
- Their role in immunology was initially underestimated.
- NK cells are now recognized as crucial components of the innate immune system.
Purpose of the Study:
- To reflect on the historical progression of understanding NK cells.
- To highlight the transition of NK cells from obscurity to prominence.
- To discuss the unexpected discoveries in NK cell research.
Main Methods:
- This is a perspective piece, not an experimental study.
- It involves a review of existing knowledge and historical context.
- The approach is unconventional, focusing on the evolution of understanding.
Main Results:
- NK cell research has progressed significantly over three decades.
- Initial findings about NK cells were often unexpected.
- Their importance in innate immunity is now widely accepted.
Conclusions:
- The journey of NK cell research showcases remarkable scientific progress.
- Understanding NK cells has fundamentally shifted immunological paradigms.
- Continued exploration promises further insights into innate immunity.
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