Figure 1.
The activation of natural killer cells is controlled by the signals from inhibitory and activation receptors. NK cell activation is restricted as self MHC class I molecules are recognized by inhibitory NK cell receptors. In the case of downregulation or absence of self MHC class I molecules in encountered cells, NK cell activation leads to the release of granules by causing cytotoxicity. NK, natural killer; MHC, major histocompatibility complex.