High-and super-resolution microscopy imaging of the NK cell immunological synapse

Abstract

Recent advances in imaging technology have enabled signifi cant advances in the study of NK cell cytotoxic effector function through quantitative analysis of the NK cell immunological synapse. This can include the use of high-and super-resolution microscopy to quantify dynamics of cytoskeletal elements and the role they play in the regulation and execution of NK cell directed secretion. Here we describe a protocol for the recapitulation of the NK cell lytic synapse on glass, the acquisition of microscopy images, and suggested approaches for the processing and analysis of microscopy data.