ADCCreaktioihin

ADCCreaktioihin refers to Antibody-Dependent Cellular Cytotoxicity reactions. This is a fundamental mechanism of the adaptive immune system where the immune system's cells, such as Natural Killer (NK) cells, macrophages, and neutrophils, are directed to kill target cells. The process is initiated when antibodies bind to antigens on the surface of a target cell. This binding is crucial as it acts as a bridge. The tail end of the antibody, known as the Fc region, is then recognized and bound by specific receptors on the surface of cytotoxic immune cells.

Upon binding to the antibody-coated target cell, these immune effector cells become activated. This activation triggers a cascade of events leading to the release of cytotoxic molecules. These molecules, such as perforin and granzymes, are then directed towards the target cell, causing its lysis or programmed cell death (apoptosis). ADCC plays a vital role in defending the body against viral infections and cancer. It is also a key mechanism targeted by many therapeutic antibodies, often referred to as monoclonal antibodies, which are designed to specifically recognize and bind to cancer cells, thereby recruiting the immune system to eliminate them. The efficacy of these therapies is directly linked to the efficiency of the ADCC response.