Natural Killer Cell Function and Dysfunction in Hepatitis C Virus Infection

Figure 3

Natural killer cell antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC). Natural killer cells can recognize and kill antibody-coated target cells. When antibodies bind antigens displayed on the surface of transformed or infected target cells, NK CD16 receptors bind the Fc portion of bound antibodies (most IgG subclasses) and mediate cytotoxicity against the target cell by degranulation and directed release of cytotoxins.