Antibody-Dependent Cell-Mediated Cytotoxicity

Abstract

Abstract The early interactions between effector and target cells in antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity were analyzed in a system with hapten-coated target cells and anti-hapten antibodies. Direct contact between effector and target cells through the antibody molecule is required for lysis of target cells. Establishment of contact can be prevented by free hapten, but once contact has occurred, free hapten is ineffective in preventing lysis of target cells. After effector cell-target cell interactions, target cell damage is first manifested by increased osmotic fragility and later by a progressive, temperature dependent, increased permeability for intracellular components. Effector cells and target cells remain in contact during the lytic process, which is completed in several hours.