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ITAM-based receptors in natural killer cells
Oscar A Aguilar1,2, Lam-Kiu Fong3, Lewis L Lanier1,2
1Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of California - San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA.
Immunological Reviews
|February 27, 2024
Summary
Natural killer (NK) cells can gain adaptive immune features, challenging previous beliefs. This adaptation, seen during cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection, relies on specific NK receptors and adaptor molecules for signaling.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cellular Biology
- Infectious Disease
Background:
- Adaptive immunity was traditionally defined by T and B cells possessing longevity and memory.
- Natural killer (NK) cells, part of innate immunity, are now recognized to acquire adaptive characteristics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the mechanisms by which NK cells gain adaptive features.
- To highlight the role of NK receptors and adaptor molecules in adaptive NK cell generation.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on adaptive NK cells.
- Analysis of signaling pathways involving NK receptors and ITAM-containing adaptors.
Main Results:
- NK cells can develop adaptive traits, including enhanced secondary responses, during viral infections like cytomegalovirus (CMV).
- Adaptive NK cell generation requires antigen-specific recognition via stimulatory NK receptors.
- These NK receptors depend on ITAM-bearing adaptor molecules for signal transduction.
Conclusions:
- NK cells exhibit plasticity, acquiring adaptive immune features previously thought exclusive to lymphocytes.
- Understanding the signaling requirements for adaptive NK cell development is crucial for future research.
- Further investigation into NK receptor-adaptor interactions is warranted to fully elucidate adaptive NK cell generation.
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