Secretory granule-mediated cell death is one of the the key mechanisms for elimination of virus-infected and transformed target cells by cytotoxic lymphocytes. Formation of the immunological synapse between an effector and a target cell leads to exocytic trafficking of the secretory granules by releasing contents, which include pro-apoptotic proteases, granzymes, and pore-forming perforin into the synapse. The delivery of granzymes via perforin into the cytosol, initiate various apoptotic pathways. Unlike relatively redundant individual granzymes, functional perforin is absolutely essential for cytotoxic lymphocyte function and immune regulation in the host (1).
-Western-Blot-NBP1-97512-img0001.jpg "Western Blot: Perforin Antibody")
Western Blot: Perforin Antibody
Patients with chronically infected HIV-1 tend to have increased levels of extracellular perforin compared with uninfected individuals. Increased perforin was also observed during experimental SIV/SHIV infection. The combination of reduced intracellular perforin levels and an increased serum level indicates that HIV infection induces aberrant perforin secretion (2). Flow cytometry assays focusing on perforin release mechanisms of cytotoxic T lymphocytes for perforin release using anti-perforin antibodies have been documented where cytotoxic T lymphocytes are key players in immune defense and maintenance of immune homeostasis (4).
Novus Biologicals offers Perforin reagents, including:
