Static killers? Natural killer cell activity can be influenced by phosphorylating a protein in NK cells

Mammals contain cells whose primary function is to kill other cells in the body. The so-called Natural Killer (NK) cells are highly important in defending our bodies against viruses or even cancer. Scientists provide evidence that NK cell activity can be influenced by phosphorylating a protein (STAT1) in NK cells. The results could be of immediate therapeutic relevance.