Role of NKT cells in the digestive system. I. Invariant NKT cells and liver diseases: is there strength in numbers?
Information regarding the functional role of the innate immune T cell, invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells, in the pathophysiology of liver diseases continues to emerge. Results from animal studies suggest that iNKT cells can have divergent roles by specifically promoting the development of proinflammatory or anti-inflammatory responses in liver diseases. In this themes article, I discuss the critical evidence from animal models that demonstrate a vital role for iNKT cells in the pathophysiology of liver diseases with emphasis on viral, autoimmune, and toxin-induced liver diseases. Furthermore, I discuss the controversial issues (including iNKT cell apoptosis) that typify some of these studies. Finally, I highlight areas that require additional investigation.
Ajuebor
Maureen N
MN
Dept. of Molecular & Cellular Physiology, Louisiana State Univ. Health Sciences Center, 1501 Kings Highway, Shreveport, LA 71130-3932, USA. majueb@lsuhsc.edu
D000818:Animals; D017209:Apoptosis; D056486:Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury / Q000276:immunology; D005699:Galactosylceramides; D007694:Killer Cells, Natural / Q000502:physiology*; D008099:Liver / Q000166:cytology; D008107:Liver Diseases / Q000276:immunology*
D005699:Galactosylceramides; C493154:alpha-galactosylceramide