Bioinspired Materials for Immunoengineering of T Cells and Natural Killer Cells

Abstract

AbstractImmune responses are directed by the complex interactions of different cell types, including T cells and Natural Killer (NK) cells, with a key type of interaction being the formation of close cell‐cell adhesions: immune synapses. Drawing on biophysical characteristics of the immune synapse and the immune cell surface, researchers are developing bioinspired materials for immunoengineering. Here are reviewed key biophysical variables that impact immune cell signaling, and how these have been exploited to develop immunomodulatory biomaterials. Mechanical forces and material properties such as stiffness are sensed by immune cells. This has enabled the modulation of cell activation using mechanically‐controlled biomaterials: hydrogels, micropillars, and nanowire arrays. In parallel, microscopy has revealed micro‐scale and nanoscale molecular patterning at cell surfaces, inspiring the creation of micro‐ and nanopatterned materials using lithography and nanoparticle approaches. The complex 3D structures of immune cells have inspired the creation of topographically patterned substrates and controlled 3D microenvironments. Finally, technologies have been developed to externally modulate biophysical variables, using magnetic and optical fields to stimulate biomaterials and drive immune cell activation. Together, these bioinspired materials are enhancing the understanding of immunology. A challenge is translation to the clinic, e.g., via improved ex vivo cell engineering for adoptive immunotherapies.