Unifying concepts of MHC-dependent natural killer cell education

Trends Immunol. 2011 Aug;32(8):364-72. doi: 10.1016/j.it.2011.06.001. Epub 2011 Jul 13.

Abstract

Natural killer (NK) cells, like B and T lymphocytes, are potent effector cells that are crucial for immunity to tumors and infections. These effector responses must be controlled to avoid inadvertent attack against normal self. Yet, the mechanisms that guide NK cell tolerance differ from those guiding T and B cell tolerance. Here, we discuss how NK cells are licensed by self-MHC class I molecules through their inhibitory receptors which results in NK cell functional competence to be triggered through their activation receptors. We discuss recent data with respect to issues related to licensing, thereby providing a framework for unifying concepts on NK cell education.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Autoantigens / immunology*
  • Clonal Selection, Antigen-Mediated
  • Cytotoxicity, Immunologic
  • Histocompatibility Antigens / immunology*
  • Humans
  • Infections / immunology*
  • Killer Cells, Natural / immunology*
  • Models, Immunological
  • Neoplasms / immunology*
  • Receptors, Natural Killer Cell / immunology
  • Self Tolerance

Substances

  • Autoantigens
  • Histocompatibility Antigens
  • Receptors, Natural Killer Cell