Understanding Cytolytic Activity in Immunology

Cytolytic refers to the ability of a substance or cell to lyse (break apart) other cells. In the context of immunology, cytolytic refers to the ability of certain immune cells, such as cytotoxic T cells and natural killer cells, to recognize and kill infected cells or tumor cells that display viral antigens or tumor-specific antigens on their surface.

Cytolytic activity is mediated by the release of granules containing proteins such as perforin and granzymes from the cytotoxic cells. These granules form pores in the target cell membrane, allowing the granzymes to enter the cell and cause apoptosis (programmed cell death).

Cytolytic therapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses cytotoxic drugs or immunotherapy to kill cancer cells. This approach can be effective against certain types of cancer, such as lymphoma and leukemia, but it can also have side effects, such as nausea, hair loss, and an increased risk of infection.