Fig. 2
The complex interaction between NK cells and the extracellular matrix. Exposure of NK cells to the adjacent cells, molecules and metabolites in the extracellular matrix affects their development, maturation, activation and functions. CXCR3, C-X-C motif chemokine receptor 3; NKG2D, nature-killer group 2, member D; IFN-γ, interferon γ; TNF-α, tumor necrosis factor α; IDO, indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase; MICA, MHC class I polypeptide-related sequence A; PGE2, prostaglandin E2; HCC, hepatocellular carcinoma; CIS, cytokine-inducible SH2-containg protein; TGF-β, transforming growth factor-β; HMGB1, high-mobility group box 1; HIF-1α, hypoxia inducible factor-1α; 27HC, 27-hydroxycholesterol; iNKT, invariant natural killer T; GM2, β-N-acetylhexosaminidase; TCR, T cell receptor