Czech Science Foundation Grant Fuels Cutting-Edge Research on NK Cell Immune Synapses
The Czech Science Foundation (GA CR) has awarded funding to an international research project dedicated to unraveling the mysteries of natural killer (NK) cell immune synapses. With GA CR’s support, a consortium of scientists from the Czech Republic, Austria, and Slovenia will study these interactions under the project titled “Nanoscale organisation of NK cell receptor-ligand complexes through quantitative single-molecule microscopy.” This project combines cutting-edge techniques such as single-molecule localization microscopy (SMLM) with nanobody labeling, protein crystallography, and functional studies of NK cell signaling. The aim is to delve deep into the nanoscale organization of NK cell receptor-ligand complexes on the cell surface.
This research endeavor focuses on three key objectives:
- Evaluating the oligomeric state of receptor-ligand complexes.
- Establishing correlations between this state, signal transduction, and NK cell activation/inhibition.
- Assessing the effectiveness of multivalent binders in modulating NK cell activity.
The implications of this research are profound. A deeper understanding of NK cell immune synapse formation and molecular interactions holds the promise of improving immunotherapy treatments. Such insights could pave the way for precision treatments in various diseases, including cancer and autoimmune disorders.
As this international collaboration embarks on its journey, we anticipate significant discoveries and advancements. The support of the Czech Science Foundation underscores the importance of international scientific cooperation in advancing knowledge and, ultimately, improving human health.