NKR-P1, a signal transduction molecule on natural killer cells
Article Abstract:
Natural killer (NK) cells are a type of white blood cell that kills infected or abnormal cells without prior sensitization (required by many other cell types of the immune system). Furthermore, their target need not be associated with specific molecules of the major histocompatibility complex (a class of molecules that enable recognition of foreign proteins by the immune system). How the NK cell 'knows' that a target cell is present and ready to be attacked is not understood, however; the signal transduction molecule has not been identified. To better understand signal transduction in NK-mediated cell lysis (destruction), experiments were performed to characterize a molecule present in high density on rat NK cells. The chemical characteristics of the molecule, a dimer (two identical molecules associated with each other), are described. Using cDNA probes, the gene that directs the manufacture of the 60-kilodalton (molecular weight) protein was identified. This gene does not appear to be related to other genes known to encode NK cell- associated molecules. Its product has a similar orientation in the cell membrane and similar amino acid sequences to members of a family of molecules called the C-type animal lectin family. The protein, named NKR-P1, is likely to be an NK cell surface receptor with features similar to those of other molecules that are expressed on cell surfaces when the cell is activated. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: Science
Subject: Science and technology
ISSN: 0036-8075
Year: 1990
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The Science of Signal Transduction
Article Abstract:
Research in signal transduction is developing new information rapidly about all biological processes. Science magazine offers four reviews of the model systems and biological contexts that provide the foundation for the exploration of cellular signaling mechanisms. Part of the disemination effort includes a new Web site to be launched in summer 1999 as a state-of-the-art resource for work in various areas of research, inclusive of nuclear receptors, DNA, and protein interaction.
Publication Name: Science
Subject: Science and technology
ISSN: 0036-8075
Year: 1999
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Express yourself or die: peptides, MHC molecules, and NK cells
Article Abstract:
Natural killer (NK) cells protect the body from infection and mutant cells by assessing cells for self Class I MHC molecules. Research on the role of peptides in NK recognition is discussed.
Publication Name: Science
Subject: Science and technology
ISSN: 0036-8075
Year: 1995
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