Lipid in T-cell receptor transmembrane signaling

T-cell receptor (TCR) is a key receptor in the immune system that can recognize antigen and initiate adaptive immune response. TCR activity needs to be regulated in a precise manner to trigger sufficient response to foreign pathogens but avoid unnecessary harm to the host. Despite of its importance, the molecular mechanism of TCR transmembrane signaling still remains elusive. Emerging studies show that lipid can play sophisticated roles in regulating the structure and function of TCR. This review mainly discusses how acidic phospholipids regulate TCR signaling through ionic protein-lipid interaction.