CD16

From Food & Medicine Encyclopedia

CD16 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the FCGR3A gene. It is a low affinity receptor for the Fc region of immunoglobulin G (IgG) and is involved in immune response and immune system processes.

Structure[edit]

CD16 exists in two forms - CD16a and CD16b. CD16a is a transmembrane protein found on the surface of natural killer cells, macrophages, and neutrophils. CD16b is a glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored protein present on neutrophils.

Function[edit]

CD16 plays a crucial role in the immune response, including antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC). It binds to the Fc portion of IgG antibodies which then induces phagocytosis by macrophages, and cytotoxicity mediated by natural killer cells.

Clinical significance[edit]

Alterations in the CD16 gene have been associated with susceptibility to rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and transplant rejection.

See also[edit]

References[edit]

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External links[edit]

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