Description

The Natural Killer Cells profile aids in assessing the patient's innate immune response and vulnerability to certain viral infections.

Biomarkers included:

% CD16+CD56+ NK Cells

CD16+CD56+ NK Cell Count

Lymphocyte Count

Natural killer (NK) cells are a type of white blood cell that play a crucial role in the innate immune system. They recognize and eliminate cells that are infected with viruses or have become cancerous, without requiring prior activation or sensitization. NK cells also contribute to the regulation of other immune responses by producing cytokines. 

Here's a more detailed look at NK cells:

Key Features and Functions:

  • Innate Immune System:
  • NK cells are part of the body's first line of defense against pathogens and tumors, providing a rapid response without requiring previous exposure to the specific threat. 
  • Cytotoxicity:
  • NK cells possess the ability to kill other cells, particularly those that are stressed, infected, or cancerous. They do this by releasing cytotoxic molecules that destroy the target cells. 
  • "Self" vs. "Non-Self" Recognition:
  • NK cells use a complex system of receptors, including activating receptors and inhibitory receptors, to distinguish between healthy cells and those that need to be eliminated. 
  • Cytokine Production:
  • NK cells produce various cytokines, which are signaling molecules that can influence the activity of other immune cells, modulating the immune response. 
  • Memory Function:
  • While traditionally thought of as innate, NK cells have also been shown to develop immune memory, similar to T and B cells. 
  • Clinical Significance:
  • NK cells are being investigated for their potential in immunotherapy, particularly for cancer treatment and other diseases. 

Development and Maturation:

  • NK cells develop from lymphoid stem cells in the bone marrow. 
  • They mature and are then released into the bloodstream, where they patrol the body looking for cells in need of elimination. 

Receptors:

  • NK cells express a variety of surface receptors, including those that bind to MHC class I molecules (which are important for distinguishing self from non-self). 
  • They also have activating and inhibitory receptors that recognize altered proteins on target cells, regulating their cytolytic function. 

In Summary: Natural killer cells are a vital part of the innate immune system, capable of rapidly recognizing and eliminating threats like virus-infected cells and tumor cells. They also contribute to the overall regulation of immune responses and are being explored as potential tools for immunotherapy.