Abstract
Background:
Tumor immunosurveillance is a part of the dynamic process of interaction between abnormal cells and the host immune system. Tumor immunosurveillance is actively and continuously regulated in both positive and negative ways. Natural killer T (NKT) cells are cells that have been shown to play a role in both positive and negative regulation of tumor immunosurveillance. Recent studies suggest that NKT cells are a heterogeneous cell population with multiple subsets with distinct functions.
Objective:
This review discusses the functions of those NKT cell subsets in regulating tumor immunity and potential interactions or counter-regulation among the NKT cell subsets.
Method:
Selected literature is reviewed.
Conclusion:
Manipulation of the balance among those subsets may provide new modes of intervention for tumor immunotherapy.
Publication types
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Research Support, N.I.H., Intramural
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Review
MeSH terms
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Animals
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Antigens, Neoplasm / immunology
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CD28 Antigens / immunology
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CD40 Antigens / immunology
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Cytokines / physiology
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Disease Susceptibility / immunology
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Galactosylceramides / pharmacology
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Galactosylceramides / therapeutic use
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Humans
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Immunocompetence
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Immunologic Memory
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Immunologic Surveillance / immunology
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Immunologic Surveillance / physiology*
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Killer Cells, Natural / classification
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Killer Cells, Natural / drug effects
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Killer Cells, Natural / immunology*
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Lipids / immunology
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Lymphocyte Activation / drug effects
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Lymphocytes, Null / immunology
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Lymphocytes, Tumor-Infiltrating / immunology
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Mice
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Mice, Inbred NOD
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Mice, Transgenic
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Neoplasms / drug therapy
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Neoplasms / immunology*
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Neoplasms / pathology
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T-Lymphocyte Subsets / drug effects
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T-Lymphocyte Subsets / immunology*
Substances
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Antigens, Neoplasm
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CD28 Antigens
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CD40 Antigens
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Cytokines
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Galactosylceramides
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Lipids
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alpha-galactosylceramide