Publication
Abstract
Background & Aim: Invariant NKT cells (iNKTs) are a very small subpopulation of lymphocytes that share main characteristics with NK cells (cytotoxic activity) and T-cells (specificity). iNKTs recognize mainly lipids of microbes, tumors and also their own antigens. They can bridge the innate and adaptive immune system and regulate the immune response.
They play a role both in physiological processes and in various pathological conditions (e. g. cancer, autoimmunity). To better understand the heterogeneity of iNKTs, we compared the immunophenotype, immunomodulatory potential and cytotoxic activity of iNKTs from healthy donors.