In Situ Detection of MAIT Cells and MR1-Expressing Cells in Tissue Biopsies Utilizing Immunohistochemistry

Methods Mol Biol. 2020:2098:83-94. doi: 10.1007/978-1-0716-0207-2_6.

Abstract

The mucosa-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells are innate-like T cells that recognize microbial vitamin B2 metabolites presented via MR1, a MHC-I-related protein. MAIT cells are abundant in blood and mucosa, where they display a broad range of functions. Spatial distribution of cells and their proximity to other cells, including infected cells and antigen presenting cells, are crucial components of cell-mediated immunity. Here we describe techniques to detect MAIT cells and MR1-expressing cells in situ, which enable the visualization, distribution, and localization of these cells within their histological context. We provide specific protocols and describe potential advantages and limitations for each of the presented methodologies for studying MAIT cells in human tissues.

Keywords: Antibodies and microscopy; Fixation; Immunofluorescence; Immunohistochemistry; In situ detection; MAIT cells; MR1.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Antigen-Presenting Cells / immunology
  • Antigen-Presenting Cells / metabolism
  • Biopsy
  • Fluorescent Antibody Technique
  • Gene Expression
  • Histocompatibility Antigens Class I / genetics
  • Histocompatibility Antigens Class I / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Immunohistochemistry* / methods
  • In Situ Hybridization* / methods
  • Microscopy, Fluorescence
  • Minor Histocompatibility Antigens / genetics
  • Minor Histocompatibility Antigens / metabolism*
  • Mucosal-Associated Invariant T Cells / cytology
  • Mucosal-Associated Invariant T Cells / immunology
  • Mucosal-Associated Invariant T Cells / metabolism*
  • Organ Specificity

Substances

  • Histocompatibility Antigens Class I
  • MR1 protein, human
  • Minor Histocompatibility Antigens