ADCC stands for Antibody-Dependent Cellular Cytotoxicity. It is a mechanism by which certain immune cells, known as cytotoxic cells such as natural killer (NK) cells and macrophages, are able to eliminate target cells that are coated with antibodies. This process involves the binding of the antibody to a specific antigen on the target cell's surface, leading to the activation of the cytotoxic immune cells.
In ADCC, the Fc region of the antibody binds to Fc receptors present on the immune cells. This binding triggers the release of lytic granules containing cytotoxic molecules, such as perforin and granzyme, from the immune cells. These cytotoxic molecules cause the target cell to undergo apoptosis or cell death. ADCC is an important defense mechanism against infected or cancerous cells that may not be effectively cleared by other means.
ADCC plays a vital role in both innate and adaptive immunity. In innate immunity, NK cells are the primary mediators of ADCC, while in adaptive immunity, macrophages, neutrophils, and eosinophils can also participate. ADCC can be induced by several types of antibodies, including IgG and IgA. It is an essential component of the immune response against viral infections, some bacterial infections, and in the control of tumor growth.
Research on ADCC has paved the way for the development of therapies utilizing monoclonal antibodies that enhance ADCC activity, such as in cancer immunotherapy. Understanding the mechanisms and regulation of ADCC has significant implications in immunology, allowing for the development of strategies to harness and strengthen this immune response for therapeutic purposes.
