NK cell subsets and their role in allergy

Abstract

Introduction: NK cells represent a distinct lymphocyte population with extensive cytolytic activity and a variety of other functions, including regulation of hemopoiesis, suppressor functions and immunoglobulin production. Recently, reports suggest that NK cells also display potent regulatory functions via secretion of cytokines or cell-contact-dependent mechanisms. Thus NK cells may regulate innate and adaptive immune responses and play a role in immune homeostasis.