Cookies on this website

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you click 'Accept all cookies' we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies and you won't see this message again. If you click 'Reject all non-essential cookies' only necessary cookies providing core functionality such as security, network management, and accessibility will be enabled. Click 'Find out more' for information on how to change your cookie settings.

T cell activation requires interactions of T cell antigen receptors (TCR) and peptides presented by major histocompatibility complex molecules (MHCp) in an adhesive junction between the T cell and antigen-presenting cell. Stable junctions with bull's eye supramolecular activation clusters (SMACs) have been defined as immunological synapses (IS). These structures maintain T cell-APC interaction and allow directed secretion. T cells can also be activated by asymmetric hemi-synapses (HS) that allow migration during signal integration. IS and HS operate in different stages of T cell priming. Optimal effector functions may also depend upon cyclical use of IS and HS.

Original publication

DOI

10.1016/j.smim.2005.09.002

Type

Journal article

Journal

Semin Immunol

Publication Date

12/2005

Volume

17

Pages

400 - 410

Keywords

Animals, Antigen-Presenting Cells, Cell Movement, Humans, Immunologic Capping, Lymphocyte Activation, Microscopy, Fluorescence, Multiphoton, Signal Transduction, T-Lymphocytes