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Classics

Although initially described as capable of rapidly killing tumor cells, natural killer cells are now established as able to influence adaptive immune responses, defend against pathogen infections and regulate placentation. Investigation into the molecular mechanics through which activating and inhibitory receptors regulate natural killer cell responsiveness has extended our understanding of how natural killer cells remain self-tolerant yet exercise diverse biological roles. With help from experts in the field, we have compiled an annotated list of classic papers that present seminal insights into natural killer cell development, responsiveness and function. We gratefully acknowledge Eric Long, Alessandro Moretta, Mark Smyth, Hans-Gustaf Ljunggren, Marco Colonna, Anne Croy, Francesco Colucci, Alan Sher, Daniel Davis, Alexander Steinle, André Veillette and Mary Carrington for their help in choosing these landmark papers.

• Identification of NK cells
• Mechanics of NK cell activation
• NK cells in health and disease

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