The optimal kir donor – we can recognize, but can we search?

The role of natural killer (NK) cells in relapse protection after hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) for patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is well recognized and has been extensively studied using various models of NK cell alloreactivity [1]. Among numerous NK cell receptors, the most extensively studied are the Killer-cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIRs), which can be either inhibitory or activating. The binding of inhibitory KIRs to their ligands (histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules) protects the cell from NK cell cytotoxicity.
Source: Biology of Blood and Marrow Transplantation - Category: Hematology Authors: Source Type: research