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Purification and Expansion of Mouse Invariant Natural Killer T Cells for in vitro and in vivo Studies
Published on: February 15, 2021
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Activation and Function of iNKT and MAIT Cells
Shilpi Chandra1, Mitchell Kronenberg1
1La Jolla Institute for Allergy & Immunology, La Jolla, California, USA.
Advances in Immunology
|June 16, 2015
Summary
T lymphocytes recognize more than just peptides. This review explores invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells and mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells, which respond to nonpeptide antigens and bridge innate and adaptive immunity.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cellular Biology
- Microbiology
Background:
- T lymphocytes traditionally recognize peptide antigens.
- Recent findings reveal T cell populations recognizing nonpeptide antigens.
- Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells and mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells are key examples.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and compare iNKT cells and MAIT cells.
- To highlight their unique antigen recognition and activation pathways.
- To emphasize their role in antimicrobial responses and bridging innate and adaptive immunity.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing scientific literature.
- Comparative analysis of iNKT and MAIT cell characteristics.
- Focus on antigen presentation, T cell receptor diversity, and cytokine production.
Main Results:
- iNKT cells recognize glycolipids via CD1d.
- MAIT cells recognize microbial metabolites via MR1.
- Both cell types exhibit restricted T cell receptor diversity and rapid cytokine production (e.g., IFNγ).
- They function at the innate-adaptive immunity interface.
Conclusions:
- iNKT and MAIT cells are distinct innate-like T cell subsets.
- Their unique activation mechanisms and rapid responses are crucial for immunity.
- These cells play a significant role in antimicrobial defense.
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