Innate Lymphoid Cells in COVID-19: Bystanders or Active Contributors?

초록

The COVID-19 pandemic that was caused by SARS-CoV-2 prompted extensiveinvestigation into the immune mechanisms that drive SARS-CoV-2 clearance andpathogenesis. Of particular interest is the innate immune system, which appearsto play a critical role in early defense against SARS-CoV-2, particularly at themucosal interfaces where it first enters the body. The innate lymphoid cells (ILCs)may be key cellular players in this immune response. These cells comprise thehelper ILCs and natural killer (NK) cells and are often referred to as the innatecounterparts of T cells. They function as important coordinators of protectiveimmune responses during the early stages of virus infections in general but cansometimes also mediate their pathogenicity. This review discusses the currentunderstanding of how ILCs may contribute to both protective immunity againstSARS-CoV-2 infection and the pathological inflammation this virus induces. Weaddress the question: are ILCs mere bystanders or are they active contributors tothe immune response?

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