Publisher: Biomedical Translational Research Institute 

Date: June 6, 2024

In a series of groundbreaking contributions to the prestigious immunology journal Cellular & Molecular Immunology, Researcher Yang Meixiang and her esteemed collaborators from our university's esteemed Biomedical Transformation Research Institute have unveiled novel mechanisms shedding light on the development and functional regulation of gamma delta T cells and NK cells.

The latest publication, dated June 6, 2024, showcases the relentless pursuit of knowledge by Researcher Yang Meixiang and her team. In a key discovery on April 19, 2024, Professor Yang and Professor Yin Zhinan disclosed the pivotal role of liver kinase Lkb1 in orchestrating the lineage commitment of γ - δ T cells. Furthermore, their research uncovered how Lkb1 regulates the maturation of V γ 6 γ - δ T cells, dampening autoimmune hepatitis by employing an AMPK mTOR-dependent pathway. This revelation not only unravels the metabolic intricacies influencing thymic γ - δ T cell subpopulations but also enhances our comprehension of metabolic-related signaling pathways governing the development and functionality of these cells.

(Screenshot of the paper)

Moreover, a joint collaboration with Professor Dong Zhongjun's team from Tsinghua University on May 13, 2024, yielded significant breakthroughs related to NK cell development, as detailed in the Journal of Cellular & Molecular Immunology. The study highlighted the indispensable role of the transcription factor Eomesodermin (Eomes) in overseeing spatiotemporal coordination throughout various stages of NK cell maturation. This novel finding enriches the team's research arsenal on NK cell development and regulatory mechanisms, offering fresh insights into the intricate mechanisms underpinning NK cell evolution and potential therapeutic targets for associated disorders.

(Screenshot of the paper)

Emphasizing the critical role of innate immune cells in combating pathogens and modulating adaptive immunity, the profound impact of gamma delta T cells and NK cells in anti-tumor and antiviral responses underscores the relevance of understanding their homeostasis and functional regulation. Researcher Yang Meixiang's dedication to dissecting the metabolic and transcriptional regulation mechanisms governing innate immune cell development stands at the forefront of medical immunology research.

Noteworthy support for this groundbreaking research was provided by esteemed entities such as the National Natural Science Foundation of China, the Guangdong Provincial Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation, and the 111 Project.

For further details and access to the original publications, refer to the following links: doi: 10.1038/s41423-024-01163-9 and doi: 10.1038/s41423-024-01164-8.

Stay tuned for more updates as Researcher Yang Meixiang continues to illuminate the realms of immunology with her pioneering research endeavors.