Cutting edge: antibody-dependent memory-like NK cells distinguished by FcRγ deficiency

J Immunol. 2013 Feb 15;190(4):1402-6. doi: 10.4049/jimmunol.1203034. Epub 2013 Jan 23.

Abstract

Because NK cells lack gene-recombination machinery and are thought to be relatively short-lived, it is unclear whether NK cells can mount long-term effective recall responses to reinfections by diverse pathogens. In this article, we report that FcRγ-deficient NK cells, which we recently identified and termed g(-)NK cells, possess distinct memory features directed by FcR-mediated Ab-dependent target recognition. The presence of g(-)NK cells was associated with prior human CMV (HMCV) infection, yet g(-)NK cell responses were not restricted to HCMV-infected target cells. In the presence of virus-specific Abs, g(-)NK cells had greatly enhanced functional capabilities, superior to conventional NK cells, and were highly responsive to cells infected with either HCMV or HSV-1. Remarkably, the g(-)NK cell subset persisted long-term at nearly constant levels in healthy individuals. Therefore, FcRγ deficiency distinguishes an Ab-dependent memory-like NK cell subset with enhanced potential for broad antiviral responses.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Antibody-Dependent Cell Cytotoxicity / immunology*
  • Cell Line
  • Cells, Cultured
  • Cytomegalovirus / immunology
  • Gene Targeting
  • Humans
  • Immunologic Memory* / genetics
  • Immunophenotyping
  • Killer Cells, Natural / immunology*
  • Killer Cells, Natural / metabolism*
  • Killer Cells, Natural / virology
  • Receptors, IgG / deficiency*
  • Receptors, IgG / genetics*
  • Receptors, IgG / metabolism

Substances

  • Receptors, IgG