What type of T cell recognizes lipid antigens?

Natural killer T (NKT) cells are specialized T cells that have the unique ability to recognize lipid antigens presented by CD1d molecules, which is distinct from the typical peptide antigens recognized by conventional T cells. This unique feature is significant because it allows NKT cells to respond to a different subset of antigens that are not proteins or peptides, which broadens the antigen recognition capabilities of the immune system.

NKT cells play a crucial role in the immune response by bridging the innate and adaptive immune systems, often rapidly releasing cytokines upon activation, which can influence the behavior of other immune cells. This capability makes them important players in various immunological processes, including responses to tumors and infections, and in regulating immune tolerance. The ability to recognize lipid antigens sets NKT cells apart from cytotoxic T cells, helper T cells, and regulatory T cells, which primarily respond to peptide antigens.