Work

IL-33 Modulates Cytotoxic NK Cell Subsets in Severe Eosinophilic Asthma

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Natural Killer (NK) cells contribute to airway inflammation in severe eosinophilic asthma (SEA). IL-33, elevated in SEA, may modulate NK cell function, but its effects are unclear. We analyzed peripheral blood NK cell subsets from five SEA patients and five healthy controls using flow cytometry, assessing CD56/CD16-defined subsets and markers, CD57, NKG2A, CD62L, and ICAM-1, at baseline and after 72 h IL-33 stimulation. SEA patients showed reduced mature cytotoxic NK cells and altered expression of adhesion and regulatory molecules. IL-33 selectively increased ICAM-1 and NKG2A in mature NK cells, while decreasing these markers in immature subsets. These findings indicate that IL-33 differentially regulates NK-cell phenotype and function, highlighting NK cells as dynamic mediators of inflammation in SEA.

Source: Life

DOI: 10.3390/life16020348

Authors: Laura Bergantini, Irene Paggi, Tommaso Pianigiani, Elena Bargagli, Paolo Cameli

Institution: Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese

Language: English

Topic: IL-33, ST2, and ILC Pathways

Subfield: Immunology

Field: Immunology and Microbiology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,137