Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are effector cells of the innate immune system and are important in the control of viral infections. Their relevance is reflected by the multiple mechanisms evolved by viruses to evade NK cell-mediated immune responses. Over recent years, our understanding of the interplay between NK cell immunity and viral pathogenesis has improved significantly. Here, we review the role of NK cells in the control of four important viral infections in humans: cytomegalovirus, influenza virus, HIV-1, and hepatitis C virus.
Publication types
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Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
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Review
MeSH terms
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Animals
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Cytomegalovirus Infections / immunology
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Cytomegalovirus Infections / pathology
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Cytomegalovirus Infections / prevention & control
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HIV Infections / immunology
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HIV Infections / pathology
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HIV Infections / prevention & control
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Hepatitis C / immunology
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Hepatitis C / pathology
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Hepatitis C / prevention & control
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Hepatitis, Viral, Animal / immunology
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Hepatitis, Viral, Animal / pathology
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Hepatitis, Viral, Animal / prevention & control
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Humans
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Influenza, Human / immunology
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Influenza, Human / pathology
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Influenza, Human / prevention & control
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Killer Cells, Natural / immunology*
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Killer Cells, Natural / pathology
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Killer Cells, Natural / virology*
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Virus Diseases / immunology*
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Virus Diseases / pathology
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Virus Diseases / virology*