Anti-Nonspecific Cytotoxic Cells antibody [5C.6]

Supplementary info

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Activity summary

Nonspecific Cytotoxic Cells also recognized as NC cells serve an important function in the immune system by targeting and killing virally infected cells and tumor cells without prior sensitization. These cells are a component of the innate immune system and are similar in function to natural killer (NK) cells. Unlike NK cells NC cells do not require specific antigen recognition. Their precise molecular mechanisms remain less defined than other immune cells and their molecular mass is not distinctly characterized. NC cells are primarily found in peripheral blood and lymphoid tissues where they execute their cytotoxic action.

Biological function summary

These immune cells play an important defensive role by eliminating cells that might otherwise evade the adaptive immune response. NC cells achieve this through the release of cytotoxins that induce apoptosis in target cells. They are not known to be part of multi-protein complexes and their activity is largely independent acting through perforin and granzymes. Their function also overlaps with natural killer cells and they contribute to bridging innate and adaptive immunity due to their rapid response capabilities.

Pathways

Nonspecific cytotoxic cells engage with key immune-related pathways such as the innate immune response pathway and the apoptosis signaling pathway. In the innate immune response they interact with proteins such as perforin and granzymes which are important for their cytotoxic activity. The apoptosis signaling pathway involves these cytotoxins leading to the programmed cell death of target cells. Their role in these pathways highlights their importance in initial immune defense and regulation of cell survival.

Associated diseases and disorders

Nonspecific cytotoxic cells show relevance to conditions like viral infections and cancer. They are a critical early defense against viral infections where their ability to kill infected cells minimizes viral spread. These cells also hold implications in cancer where their ability to recognize and eliminate tumor cells aids in tumor surveillance. The activity of proteins like perforin links NC cells to these diseases as both the defense against infection and tumor surveillance rely on efficient cytotoxic mechanisms.