Natural killer T-like cytotoxicity

“Natural killer T-like cytotoxicity” is not a molecule or receptor; it refers to the cytotoxic functional activity of NKT-like T cells (typically human CD3+ CD56+ T cells) that share features of both conventional T cells and NK cells, including high cytotoxic potential and robust cytokine secretion without classical MHC restriction. These NKT-like cells are distinct from invariant CD1d-restricted NKT (iNKT) cells and can arise among conventional CD8+ T cells that acquire NK-associated receptors and CD56 expression, correlating with enhanced cytotoxicity. Their cytotoxic mechanisms employ granzyme/perforin-mediated killing similar to NK cells and cytotoxic T lymphocytes, executed through formation of an immunological synapse and directed degranulation. Functionally, they participate in antitumor immunity, pathogen control, and immunoregulation, but their roles vary with disease context, aging, and microenvironmental cues.

Other names

NKT-like cellsCD3+ CD56+ T cells (phenotypic descriptor for NKT-like T cells)Natural killer T-like cells