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Published on: February 22, 2020
Imaging natural killer T cells in action
1Calvin, Phoebe and Joan Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
Abstract:
Natural killer T (NKT) cells were first recognized more than two decades ago as a distinct lymphocyte lineage that regulates a broad range of immune responses. The activation of NKT cells paradoxically can lead to either suppression or stimulation of immune responses, but despite this uncertainty, many investigators are hopeful that immune therapies can be developed based on NKT cell modulation. To date, the biology of NKT cells is not well characterized and details of their development have only just started to emerge. It remains unclear how NKT cells migrate from the thymus to the peripheral organs and tissues, and in turn play such diverse roles from one type of immune response to another. Despite this, recent advances in intravital microscopy represent a powerful tool for revealing new insights into NKT cellular dynamics, their patrolling and immunoregulatory functions, which could not have been gained by non-microscopy means. Indeed, imaging has revolutionized the way we visualize with exceptional resolution the cells of the immune system. Instead of seeking a comprehensive review of NKT cell biology, this review attempts to highlight some of the recent studies that use in vivo imaging technologies to address NKT cell responses in a variety of animal models.
Insights
Natural killer T (NKT) cells are crucial immune regulators, but their complex behavior and migration remain unclear. Recent in vivo imaging advances offer new insights into NKT cell dynamics and functions in various immune responses.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
- Microscopy
Background:
- Natural killer T (NKT) cells are a unique lymphocyte subset regulating diverse immune responses.
- NKT cell activation can paradoxically stimulate or suppress immunity, presenting therapeutic potential.
- The development, migration, and varied roles of NKT cells are not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight recent studies utilizing in vivo imaging to investigate NKT cell responses.
- To explore NKT cell dynamics, patrolling, and immunoregulatory functions.
- To provide insights into NKT cell behavior in various animal models.
Main Methods:
- Intravital microscopy techniques were employed.
- In vivo imaging technologies were utilized.
- Studies were conducted across diverse animal models.
Main Results:
- Recent advances in imaging have provided unprecedented resolution of immune cell behavior.
- In vivo imaging has revealed new insights into NKT cell dynamics and functions.
- Imaging technologies offer a powerful tool to study NKT cell responses that non-microscopy methods cannot achieve.
Conclusions:
- Intravital microscopy is revolutionizing the visualization of immune cells, including NKT cells.
- Further research using advanced imaging techniques is crucial for understanding NKT cell biology.
- NKT cell modulation holds promise for future immune therapies.
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