T cells continuously scan for antigens presented by potentially infected or cancerous cells in our body. The immunological synapse is a tight, yet highly dynamic contact formed between the T cell and the antigen-presenting cell. Mechanical, chemical, and electrical signals are integrated during this contact to initiate an immune response. In this work, we focus on Kv1.3, the main voltage-gated potassium channel in T cells, which polarizes toward the synaptic cleft to sustain Ca²⁺ influxes required for efficient T cell activation.

The synapse is a highly structured three-dimensional platform, where molecular events are exquisitely organized within an ever-changing membrane. CD2/CD58 is a key signaling pair that forms a dynamic corolla at the synapse’s outer edge, amplifying signaling and sustaining Ca²⁺ fluxes. How? It turns out that the CD2/CD58 corolla potentiates the redistribution of Kv1.3 as a distal synaptic ring. Simultaneously, the channel accumulates within the CD2 corolla as the synapse forms.

The cover image of the August 6 issue of Biophysical Journal is an artistic montage showing various human T cells forming immunological synapses with a supported lipid bilayer and visualized by total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy. In green, CD2/CD58 corollas at different stages of maturation highlight the dynamic nature of these signaling membrane structures. Engaged T cell receptor microclusters, forming at the synapse’s periphery and migrating to its center, are shown in purple. By localizing ion channel action within the immunological synapse, we are one step closer to understanding and manipulating the bioelectrical control of the immune response.

Through this cover image, we aim to showcase the beauty of nature's heterogeneity and dynamism. When viewed individually, each event stands out as unique and different, revealing intricate details and singular characteristics. However, when observed on a global scale, these events converge in perfect harmony, unveiling similar patterns. This delicate balance between individuality and collectivism encapsulates the complexity and elegance of natural phenomena, such as immunological synapses.

— Jesusa Capera, Ashwin Jainarayanan, María Navarro-Pérez, Salvatore Valvo, Philippos Demetriou, David Depoil, Irene Estadella, Audun Kvalvaag, James H. Felce, Antonio Felipe, and Michael L. Dustin