How Cd1d protects mice during natural infection

Narrative Natural killer T cells (NKT) are a special class of lymphocytes that recognize lipid antigens as opposed to peptide antigens that conventional T cells recognize. Preliminary data suggests they are involved in protecting the developing placenta from damage during microbial infection. This research is highly relevant to understanding the evolutionary importance of this lymphocyte subclass. It ultimately may inform what causes miscarriage, growth restriction, and pre-term birth in humans.