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Publications

Journal Article Review Epublish

PubMed: 40650276 DOI: 10.3390/ijms26136500

NK Cells: A Powerful Squad Versus SARS-CoV-2.

Int J Mol Sci 26(13)

Authors: Diana Lorena Alvarado-Hernández, Marlen Vitales Noyola, Ricardo Martínez-Rider, Sofía Bernal-Silva, Andreu Comas-Garcia

Affiliations

  • Laboratory of Chemistry, Physics and Math Department, Autonomous University of San Luis Potosí, San Luis Potosí 78210, Mexico.
  • School of Medicine, Universidad Cuauhtémoc San Luis Potosí, San Luis Potosí 78290, Mexico.
  • Endodontics Postgraduate Program, Faculty of Dentistry, Autonomous University of San Luis Potosí, San Luis Potosí 78210, Mexico.
  • Department of Molecular Biomedicine, Center of Research and Advanced Studies of the National Polytechnical Institute (CINVESTAV), Mexico City 07360, Mexico.
  • Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Specialty, Faculty of Dentistry, Autonomous University of San Luis Potosí, San Luis Potosi 78210, Mexico.
  • Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Autonomous University of San Luis Potosí, San Luis Potosí 78210, Mexico.

Abstract

The function of NK cells in cancer and viral infections is well documented and understood. NK cell activity, including cytokine secretion, cytotoxic activity, and the coordination of inhibitory and activating receptors, linking innate and adaptive immunity, among others, has been examined for numerous pathogens, including parasites, bacteria, and viruses. The emergence of the SARS-CoV-2 health crisis has exposed a deficiency in understanding the previously elucidated mechanisms; the rationale for the reported variability in symptomatology among COVID-19 patients is extensive and intricate. It is evident that NK cells exert a significant influence on symptom severity, and their absence, with the presence or absence of their surface receptors, elicits a tailored response to the virus. This overview examines the impact of NK cells on the progression of several viral diseases, emphasizing their involvement in the pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 via the activation of surface receptors.

MeSH

Cells, Sars-Cov-2, Absenteeism, Killer Cells, Natural, Viruses, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-Related Coronavirus, Virus Diseases