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Migratory functions of natural killer cells
1Department of Pathology, University of Helsinki, Finland.
Abstract:
In numerous investigations it has been found that natural killer (NK) cells are among the cells arriving early at the site of defense. To reach the tissue sites of defense, the circulating NK cells have to penetrate through the capillary wall and actively migrate along the matrix proteins towards the tumor or infected target cells. For this process NK cells need adhesion receptors which do not anchor them but allow reversible binding. The migration capacity of NK cells is found to be higher than that of other lymphocytes. NK cells also have the ability to increase rapidly the migratory response. IL-2 and a peptide derived from ICAM-2 are potential inducers of NK cell migration. ICAM-2 is expressed on endothelium, a site where lymphocytes start migration. Also, a matrix protein, fibronectin, increases NK cell migration. This review focuses on the migratory capacity of NK cells and on the receptors which NK cells use when they migrate on different substrata.
Insights
Natural killer (NK) cells migrate effectively to sites of defense using reversible adhesion receptors. Interleukin-2 (IL-2) and ICAM-2 enhance this crucial immune cell migration.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Natural killer (NK) cells are early responders to immune defense sites.
- NK cell migration involves penetrating capillary walls and moving along matrix proteins.
- Effective migration requires adhesion receptors that allow reversible binding.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the migratory capacity of natural killer (NK) cells.
- To identify the receptors NK cells utilize during migration on various substrata.
- To explore factors influencing NK cell migration.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on NK cell migration.
- Analysis of receptor function in NK cell adhesion and movement.
- Examination of the role of endothelial and matrix proteins in migration.
Main Results:
- NK cells exhibit higher migratory capacity than other lymphocytes.
- Migration response can be rapidly enhanced.
- Interleukin-2 (IL-2) and ICAM-2 peptide are identified as potential migration inducers.
- Fibronectin, a matrix protein, also enhances NK cell migration.
Conclusions:
- NK cell migration is a complex process requiring specific adhesion receptors.
- Endothelial ICAM-2 and matrix fibronectin play significant roles in facilitating NK cell movement.
- NK cells possess a unique ability for rapid and enhanced migratory responses critical for immune surveillance.