NK cell activating receptors and tumor recognition in humans.
Natural killer (NK) cells have been known for many years as the lymphocyte subset characterized by the highest cytolytic potential against virus-infected and tumor-transformed cells. A surprisingly high number of surface molecules have been recognized that regulate human NK cell function. These include MHC-specific inhibitory receptors, which impair NK cells' ability to attack normal self-tissues, and activating receptors and coreceptors that allow them to recognize and kill transformed cells. The recent identification of some of the cellular ligands specifically recognized by these receptors/coreceptors contributes to elucidation of the mystery of the role played by NK cells in immune responses.
Bottino
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Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Largo G. Gaslini 5, 16147 Genova, Italy.
Moretta
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Moretta
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D006801:Humans; D007694:Killer Cells, Natural / Q000276:immunology*; D008213:Lymphocyte Activation; D018448:Models, Immunological; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000276:immunology*; D011971:Receptors, Immunologic / Q000378:metabolism*
D011971:Receptors, Immunologic