Developmentally Programmed Early-Age Skin Localization of iNKT Cells Supports Local Tissue Development and Homeostasis

The study explores the role of invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells in the skin development and homeostasis of mice, revealing that these cells are abundant in the skin of young mice and possess skin-homing properties from early postnatal development. This occurs independently of microbiota exposure. iNKT cells are shown to regulate skin microbiota and contribute to tissue homeostasis, which is crucial for local tissue development. The research involved experiments with various groups of mice, including genetically modified ones, to assess the impact of iNKT cells on skin and immune system interactions.