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Natural Killer T-like Cells: Immunobiology and Role in Disease

Authors :
Jani-Sofia Almeida
José Manuel Casanova
Manuel Santos-Rosa
Raquel Tarazona
Rafael Solana
Paulo Rodrigues-Santos
Source :
International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 24:2743
Publication Year :
2023
Publisher :
MDPI AG, 2023.

Abstract

CD56+ T cells are generally recognized as a distinct population of T cells and are categorized as NKT-like cells. Although our understanding of NKT-like cells is far from satisfactory, it has been shown that aging and a number of disease situations have impacted these cells. To construct an overview of what is currently known, we reviewed the literature on human NKT-like cells. NKT-like cells are highly differentiated T cells with “CD1d-independent” antigen recognition and MHC-unrestricted cell killing. The genesis of NKT-like cells is unclear; however, it is proposed that the acquisition of innate characteristics by T cells could represent a remodeling process leading to successful aging. Additionally, it has been shown that NKT-like cells may play a significant role in several pathological conditions, making it necessary to comprehend whether these cells might function as prognostic markers. The quantification and characterization of these cells might serve as a cutting-edge indicator of individual immune health. Additionally, exploring the mechanisms that can control their killing activity in different contexts may therefore result in innovative therapeutic alternatives in a wide range of disease settings.

Details

ISSN :
14220067
Volume :
24
Database :
OpenAIRE
Journal :
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
Accession number :
edsair.doi...........641a5c651573e14d6d47bf59745025fd
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms24032743