CD3+CD56+ NKT-like cell

The CD3+CD56+ NKT-like cell is a subset of cytotoxic lymphocytes that co-express the T cell antigen receptor complex (CD3+) and natural killer cell marker (CD56+)[1][3]. These cells bridge features of T cells and natural killer (NK) cells, possessing both innate- and adaptive-like cytotoxic functions. Critically, they are capable of both T cell receptor (TCR)-mediated cytotoxicity and non-major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-restricted lysis (meaning they can kill target cells without classical MHC-antigen presentation, an ability typical of NK cells)[1][3]. CD3+CD56+ NKT-like cells play roles in immune surveillance against tumors and viral infections and are being investigated for adoptive cell therapy in cancer. Their numbers and functional status correlate with disease progression and prognosis in several cancers. These are not a single druggable protein target but rather a cell population defined by surface markers and effector functions.

Other names

CD3+CD56+ NKT-like cellNKT-like cellCD3+CD56+ NK T cellCIK cell