Invariant natural killer T cells in lung diseases

Abstract Invariant natural killer T ( i NKT) cells are a subset of T cells that are characterized by a restricted T-cell receptor (TCR) repertoire and a unique ability to recognize glycolipid antigens. These cells are found in all tissues, and evidence to date suggests that they play many immunological roles in both homeostasis and inflammatory conditions. The latter include lung inflammatory diseases such as asthma and infections: the roles of lung-resident i NKT cells in these diseases have been extensively researched. Here, we provide insights into the biology of i NKT cells in health and disease, with a particular focus on the role of pulmonary i NKT cells in airway inflammation and other lung diseases.