Natural killer cells as indispensable players and therapeutic targets in autoimmunity

Abstract

Natural killer (NK) cells of the innate immune system are equipped with a cytolytic machinery and produce cytokines, which enable these cells to profoundly modify adaptive immune responses to foreign invaders, as well as to self-antigens. Here we discuss the recent advances in understanding how NK cells can proactively influence sequential pathogenic steps that are instrumental for the initiation and progression of autoimmune diseases in human and experimental disease models. We also discuss the possible use of NK cells as a surrogate marker for disease activity and responsiveness to immune therapy. Finally, we present results on NK cell-based therapies in inflammatory and autoimmune disorders with a focus on existing challenges and current promises for the development of more effective therapies.

Keywords::

• NK cells innate immune system
• autoimmune disease
• multiple sclerosis
• autoimmunity

Acknowledgements

We thank the present and past members of our laboratories for their contributions in this field: Drs. R. Liu, C. Dayao for his assistance in the preparation of this review; and Drs L. Van Kaer, H.-G. Ljunggren, D. Huang, R. Ransohoff, T. Vollmer, and D. Campagnolo for discussion and collaborations. Our laboratories are supported by the MDA, NMSS, ABRC, BNF, NIHR01AI083294, and NSFC (2006AA 02A401; 2006DFB32330; 2010CB529405).

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.