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Imaging the Human Immunological Synapse
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Imaging the Human Immunological Synapse

Published on: December 26, 2019

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The Immune Synapse: Past, Present, and Future

Michael L Dustin1,2, Cosima T Baldari3

  • 1The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, Nuffield Department of Orthopedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, The University of Oxford, Roosevelt Drive, Headington, OX3 7FY, UK. michael.dustin@kennedy.ox.ac.uk.

Methods in Molecular Biology (Clifton, N.J.)
|March 4, 2017
PubMed

Insights

This volume details methods for studying immunological synapses, specialized immune cell junctions crucial for cell communication. It covers techniques for in vitro and in vivo analysis, aiding researchers in understanding immune responses.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Cell Biology
  • Microscopy

Background:

  • Immunological synapses are specialized cell-cell junctions facilitating immune cell communication.
  • Their study has advanced significantly with improved microscopy and molecular immunology techniques.
  • Early observations were made using electron microscopy in the late 20th century.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a comprehensive collection of protocols for studying immunological synapses.
  • To offer methods applicable to both in vitro and in vivo research settings.
  • To include techniques relevant to disease models in humans and animals.

Main Methods:

  • Electron microscopy for initial visualization.
  • Advanced fluorescence microscopy for detailed analysis.
  • Molecular immunology techniques including protein expression and mRNA electroporation.

Main Results:

  • The volume presents a diverse range of protocols for immunological synapse research.
  • Methods cover in vitro and in vivo applications, including disease models.
  • Supporting molecular tools for imaging approaches are also included.

Conclusions:

  • This collection aims to equip researchers with essential methods for studying immunological synapses.
  • It serves both new and experienced scientists in the field.
  • The protocols facilitate a deeper understanding of immune cell interactions and functions.

Keywords:
AffinityFluorescenceMicroscopyModelingScience history

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