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Recently implemented fluorescence imaging techniques, such as total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy and two-photon laser scanning microscopy, have made possible multiscale analysis of the immune response from single molecules in an interface to cells moving in lymphoid tissues and tumors. In this review, we consider components of T cell sensitivity: the immunological synapse, the coordination of migration, and antigen recognition in vivo. Potency, dose, and detection threshold for peptide-MHC determine T cell sensitivity. The immunological synapse incorporates T cell receptor microclusters that initiate and sustain signaling, and it also determines the positional stability of the T cells through symmetry and symmetry breaking. In vivo decisions by T cells on stopping or migration are based on antigen stop signals and environmental go signals that can sometimes prevent arrest of T cells altogether, and thus can change the outcome of antigen encounters.

Original publication

DOI

10.1007/978-3-540-93864-4_3

Type

Journal article

Journal

Curr top microbiol immunol

Publication Date

2009

Volume

334

Pages

47 - 70

Keywords

Animals, Humans, Immunological Synapses, Lymphocyte Activation, Microscopy, Fluorescence, Microscopy, Fluorescence, Multiphoton, Signal Transduction, T-Lymphocytes