Björkström NK, Ponzetta A. Natural killer cells and unconventional T cells in COVID-19.
Curr Opin Virol 2021;
49:176-182. [PMID:
34217135 PMCID:
PMC8214213 DOI:
10.1016/j.coviro.2021.06.005]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
NK cells and diverse populations of unconventional T cells, such as MAIT cells, γδ T cells, invariant NKT cells, and DNTɑβ cells are important early effector lymphocytes. While some of these cells, such as NK cell and MAIT cells, have well-established roles in antiviral defense, the function of other populations remains more elusive. Here, we summarize and discuss current knowledge on NK cell and unconventional T cell responses to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Also covered is the role of these cells in the pathogenesis of severe COVID-19. Understanding the early, both systemic and local (lung), effector lymphocyte response in this novel disease will likely aid ongoing efforts to combat the pandemic.
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