Natural killer cells: from CD3(-)NKp46(+) to post-genomics meta-analyses.
The original definition of NK cells was based on their 'natural' cytolytic response against tumor cells and virus-infected cells in the absence of specific immunization. However, the term 'natural killer' reflects neither the education/maturation requirements before NK cells can kill nor the entirety of their biological functions. In light of new functional assays, genetic models and genomics analysis, we propose a more accurate definition of NK cells. This definition includes the phenotypical identification of NK cells as CD3(-)NKp46(+) cells across mammalian species. In general, this attempt to redefine NK cells also highlights the need to update the operational definition of cell types in the post-genomic area.
Walzer
Thierry
T
Centre d'Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, Université de la Mediterranée, Case 906, 13288 Marseille cedex 9, France. vivier@ciml.univ-mrs.fr
Jaeger
Sébastien
S
Chaix
Julie
J
Vivier
Eric
E
D000818:Animals; D017252:CD3 Complex / Q000276:immunology* / Q000378:metabolism; D019070:Cell Lineage; D023281:Genomics; D006801:Humans; D007694:Killer Cells, Natural / Q000166:cytology / Q000276:immunology* / Q000378:metabolism; D015201:Meta-Analysis as Topic; D055627:Natural Cytotoxicity Triggering Receptor 1; D010802:Phylogeny; D011971:Receptors, Immunologic / Q000276:immunology* / Q000378:metabolism
D017252:CD3 Complex; C112260:NCR1 protein, human; D055627:Natural Cytotoxicity Triggering Receptor 1; D011971:Receptors, Immunologic