How do T cells initiate an immune response? This review focuses on the formation of the immunological synapse, the interface where T cell antigen receptors interact with major histocompatibility complex molecule-peptide complexes on antigen-presenting cells (APCs). The work discusses how this interaction initiates the adaptive immune response. It explains the role of membrane structure, T cell polarity, and signaling pathways, offering insights into T cell activation. The review explores how membrane domains organize the immunological synapse and how chemokines enhance T cell sensitivity to antigen. The current model suggests a tight integration of signaling and synapse formation in mature T cells, a concept extended to natural killer (NK) cell activation. The study suggests that APCs play an active role in synapse formation, particularly for activating naïve T cells. By synthesizing current knowledge on the immunological synapse, the review provides a valuable resource for researchers seeking a deeper understanding of the intricacies of the immune response and its regulation.
Published in the Annual Review of Immunology, this paper is highly relevant as it provides a comprehensive overview of the immunological synapse, a central concept in the field. By addressing the molecular mechanisms and cellular interactions involved in T cell activation, the review aligns directly with the journal’s mission to provide authoritative and critical analyses of key topics in immunology.