Natural killer cells

作者：Arundhati Mandal, Chandra Viswanathan · 发表于：Hematology/Oncology and Stem Cell Therapy · 年份：2014 · DOI：10.1016/j.hemonc.2014.11.006 · 被引用次数：274 · 研究领域：Immune Cell Function and Interaction、T-cell and B-cell Immunology、Reproductive System and Pregnancy

Natural killer (NK) cells constitute our bodies' frontline defense system, guarding against tumors and launching attacks against infections. The activities of NK cells are regulated by the interaction of various receptors expressed on their surfaces with cell surface ligands. While the role of NK cells in controlling tumor activity is relatively clear, the fact that they are also linked to various other disease conditions is now being highlighted. Here, we present an overview of the role of NK cells during normal body state as well as under diseased state. We discuss the possible utilization of these powerful cells as immunotherapeutic agents in combating diseases such as asthma, autoimmune diseases, and HIV-AIDS. This review also outlines current challenges in NK cell therapy.