Ca2+-dependent CTL and NK cell cytotoxicity (A01)

• Subject Area: Molecular Biology and Physiology of Neurons and Glial Cells
• Term: from 2011 to 2022
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 157660137

Cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) and Natural Killer (NK) cells form intimate contacts with tumor cells. We have shown that CTL and NK cells kill tumor cells most efficiently during contact formation at a surprisingly low cytosolic Ca2+ concentration. We will analyze the molecular mechanisms of this process. Considering the importance of CTL and NK cells in cellular immune therapy of cancer, we will screen natural compounds for their ability to modulate Ca2+-dependent cytotoxicity. Finally, we will analyze the role of Ca2+ in human cytotoxicity diseases.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 894: Ca2+-Signalling: Molecular Mechanisms and Integrative Functions
• Applicant Institution: Universität des Saarlandes
• Project Head: Professor Dr. Markus Hoth