Figure 3.

Centrosome functions in the immune response. (i) In naïve T lymphocytes, the centrosome is close to the nucleus and organizes microtubules toward the membrane. (ii) In migrating T lymphocytes, the centrosome is located at the back of nucleus. (iii) When T lymphocytes encounter a target cell, an IS, comprising a cSMAC and a pSMAC, is formed at the interface. The cSMAC contains accumulated TCRs. The activated TCR, along with lymphocyte function-associated antigen 1, triggers centrosome polarization to the IS. Microtubules emanating from the centrosome contribute to lytic granule delivery and target cell killing. (iv and v) Once the target is destroyed, the centrosome moves back into the cell body or polarizes to the next target.