Role of natural killer T lymphocytes during helminthic infection

• Published in: Parasite Vol. 15; no. 3; pp. 384 - 388
• Main Authors: Faveeuw, C., Mallevaey, T., Trottein, F.
• Format: Conference Proceeding Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Paris EDP Sciences 01-09-2008; Princeps
• Subjects: Animals; Antigens, CD1 - genetics; Antigens, CD1 - metabolism; Antigens, Differentiation, T-Lymphocyte - metabolism; Biological and medical sciences; CD1 molecules; Helminthiasis - immunology; Helminthiasis - parasitology; Helminthic diseases; helminths; Humans; Immunology; Infectious diseases; Killer Cells, Natural - physiology; Life Sciences; lipid antigens; Lymphocyte Activation; Medical sciences; Microbiology and Parasitology; Natural Killer T cells; Parasitic diseases; Parasitology; Schistosoma; T-Lymphocytes - immunology; Th1 Cells; Th1/Th2 responses; Th2 Cells; Infection; Natural killer cell; Human; Immune response; CD1 molecules; Th1/Th2 responses; Parasitosis; Review; lipid antigens; helminths; Helminthiasis; Natural Killer T cells
• ISSN: 1252-607X; 1776-1042
• DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2008153384

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.