New Genetically Manipulated Mice Provide Insights Into the Development and Physiological Functions of Invariant Natural Killer T Cells.

Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells are a unique T cell subset that exhibits characteristics of both innate immune cells and T cells. They express Vα14-Jα18 (-) as an invariant chain of the T cell receptor (TCR) and are restricted to the MHC class I-like monomorphic antigen presenting molecule CD1d. iNKT cells are known as immune regulators that bridge the innate and acquired immune systems by rapid and massive production of a wide range of cytokines, which could enable them to participate in immune responses during various disease states.