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Natural killer cells: from CD3−NKp46+ to post-genomics meta-analyses

2007; Elsevier BV; Volume: 19; Issue: 3 Linguagem: Inglês

10.1016/j.coi.2007.04.004

1879-0372

Thierry Walzer, Sébastian Jaeger, Julie Chaix, Éric Vivier,

IL-33, ST2, and ILC Pathways

The original definition of NK cells was based on their 'natural' cytolytic response against tumor cells and virus-infected cells in the absence of specific immunization. However, the term 'natural killer' reflects neither the education/maturation requirements before NK cells can kill nor the entirety of their biological functions. In light of new functional assays, genetic models and genomics analysis, we propose a more accurate definition of NK cells. This definition includes the phenotypical identification of NK cells as CD3−NKp46+ cells across mammalian species. In general, this attempt to redefine NK cells also highlights the need to update the operational definition of cell types in the post-genomic area.