Immunological synapse

Immunological Synapse

The Immunological Synapse (pronounced: im-yuh-noh-loj-i-kuhl sin-aps) is a specialized cell-cell junction between a T cell and an Antigen Presenting Cell (APC). This term was first coined in the late 20th century, deriving from the Greek words 'immunos' meaning 'exempt', and 'synapsis' meaning 'junction'.

Definition

An Immunological Synapse is a stable, adhesive junction where a T cell and an APC come into close contact. This junction allows for the efficient delivery of signals from the APC to the T cell, which is crucial for the T cell's activation and subsequent immune response.

Structure

The Immunological Synapse is characterized by a central cluster of T cell receptors (TCRs) and associated signaling molecules, surrounded by a ring of adhesion molecules. This structure is often referred to as a "bull's eye" pattern.

Function

The primary function of the Immunological Synapse is to facilitate the exchange of information between the T cell and the APC. This is achieved through the delivery of two signals: an antigen-specific signal delivered through the TCR, and a co-stimulatory signal delivered through other receptor-ligand interactions.

Related Terms

T cell: A type of white blood cell that is essential for immune responses.
Antigen Presenting Cell (APC): A cell that displays foreign antigens complexed with major histocompatibility complexes on their surfaces.
T cell receptor (TCR): A protein found on the surface of T cells that recognizes foreign antigens.
Co-stimulation: The process by which an immune cell becomes activated through the simultaneous engagement of two distinct receptors.