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Human natural killer cell receptor functions and their implication in diseases
Roberto Biassoni1, Nazzareno Dimasi
1Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Largo G Gaslini 5, 16147 Genova, Italy. robertobiassoni@ospedale-gaslini.ge.it
Expert Review of Clinical Immunology
|May 19, 2010
Summary
Natural killer (NK) cells use cell surface receptors to control their life-or-death decisions and cytolytic activity. This review overviews human innate immunity receptors, highlighting their disease relevance.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Natural killer (NK) cells are crucial components of the innate immune system.
- NK cell activation and inhibition are tightly regulated by cell surface receptors.
- These receptors mediate critical protein-protein interactions that dictate NK cell function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive functional and structural overview of human innate immunity cell surface receptors.
- To explore the emerging role of these receptors in various human diseases.
- To synthesize current understanding while acknowledging existing controversies.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing scientific literature and emerging data.
- Analysis of functional and structural properties of innate immunity cell surface receptors.
- Examination of genetic correlations and disease associations.
Main Results:
- Cell surface receptors on NK cells orchestrate critical life-or-death decisions.
- These receptors transmit signals to activate or inhibit cytolytic activity.
- Emerging data suggest a significant role for these receptors in diverse diseases.
Conclusions:
- Human innate immunity cell surface receptors are key regulators of NK cell function.
- These receptors represent potential targets for understanding and treating various diseases.
- Further research is needed to resolve controversial data and solidify genetic correlations.
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