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Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) in teleosts against data on ILCs in humans
Michał Stosik1, Beata Tokarz-Deptuła2, Wiesław Deptuła3
1Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Zielona Góra, Poland.
Fish & Shellfish Immunology
|January 31, 2024
Summary
Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) in teleosts are poorly understood, potentially serving as evolutionary precursors to mammalian ILCs and NK cells. Further research is needed to clarify their role in fish immunity.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Comparative Biology
- Fish Biology
Background:
- Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) and lymphoid tissue inducer (LTi) cells are recognized in humans but poorly understood in teleosts (bony fish).
- Existing data on human ILCs is incomplete, highlighting a significant knowledge gap in teleost immunology.
- Teleost ILCs are hypothesized as evolutionary precursors to mammalian NK cells and ILCs, necessitating further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) in teleosts.
- To compare teleost ILCs with their human counterparts.
- To emphasize the need for more research into teleost innate immunity.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature review of ILCs in teleosts and humans.
- Comparative analysis of immunological data between species.
- Synthesis of existing knowledge on innate and adaptive immunity in teleosts.
Main Results:
- Teleost ILCs represent a poorly characterized but potentially crucial cell population.
- These cells may bridge innate and adaptive immunity in fish.
- Their properties are likely influenced by location and physiological state, similar to human ILCs.
Conclusions:
- Significant research is required to elucidate the function and evolution of ILCs in teleosts.
- Innate immunity mechanisms may be dominant in teleosts, underscoring the importance of studying ILCs.
- Understanding teleost ILCs can provide insights into the evolution of lymphoid cells and immunity.
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