KIR–HLA combinations that result in strong activation correlate with increased risk for cervical cancer.

Certain combinations of HLA class I genes and natural killer (NK) cell receptors increase the risk of developing cervical cancer, according to a study by Carrington and colleagues on page 1069. Women who possess HLA alleles that engage inhibitory NK cell receptors were less likely to develop cervical cancer, suggesting that NK cell activation may promote cancer development.

Most cervical cancers (>95%) are associated with human papillomavirus (HPV), which establishes chronic infections in the genital tract. HPV infections that do not result in cancer may be due to effective cellular immune responses that limit HPV replication. NK cells are found in HPV-positive cervical lesions and may help protect against the virus.

NK cell activation hinges on a balance between activating and inhibitory signals generated in part by a diverse group...

The Rockefeller University Press
2005
The Rockefeller University Press
2005
You do not currently have access to this content.