Role of natural killer T lymphocytes during helminthic infection
Natural killer (NK)T cells are innate lymphocytes that release important amount of immunoregulatory cytokines (IFN-γ and/or IL-4) shortly after T cell receptor engagement by (glyco)lipid antigens presented by the CD1d molecules. Through this property, NKT cells play pivotal role in many physiopathol...
| Main Authors: | , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
EDP Sciences
2008-09-01
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| Series: | Parasite |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | http://dx.doi.org/10.1051/parasite/2008153384 |
| Summary: | Natural killer (NK)T cells are innate lymphocytes that release important amount of immunoregulatory cytokines (IFN-γ and/or IL-4) shortly after T cell receptor engagement by (glyco)lipid antigens presented by the CD1d molecules. Through this property, NKT cells play pivotal role in many physiopathologic situations. Here, we review the current knowledge of the functions and mechanisms of activation of NKT cells during infection, with a particular emphasis on helminthic infections. Recent findings suggest that, although dispensable for host resistance, NKT cells play part in the development of the acquired immune response and in the control of the pathology during murine schistosomiasis. |
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| ISSN: | 1252-607X 1776-1042 |