Assessing lineage and cytolytic functional potential of murine tissue-resident innate lymphocytes

STAR Protoc. 2023 Mar 17;4(1):102136. doi: 10.1016/j.xpro.2023.102136. Epub 2023 Feb 28.

Abstract

Group 1 innate lymphocytes are heterogeneous, and their ontogeny and function remain ambiguous. Here, we describe a protocol to measure cell ontogeny and effector functions of natural killer (NK) and ILC1 subsets based on current understanding of their differentiation pathways. We use cre drivers to genetically fate-map cells, tracking plasticity between mature NK and ILC1. We describe innate lymphoid cell precursor transfer studies that determine ontogeny of granzyme-C-expressing ILC1. Additionally, we detail in vitro killing assays that test cytolytic potential of ILC1s. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Nixon et al. (2022).1.

Keywords: Cell Isolation; Cell-based Assays; Flow Cytometry/Mass Cytometry; Genetics; Immunology; Model Organisms.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Differentiation
  • Immunity, Innate*
  • Killer Cells, Natural*
  • Mice