Molecular Classification
Receptor, Immunoglobulin superfamily
Other Names
Fc gamma receptor III, FcγRIII, FcγRIIIA, CD16a, FcγRIIIB, CD16b
Disease Roles
CancerInfectionInflammation

CD16 Receptor Overview

CD16, also known as Fc gamma receptor III (FcγRIII), is a low-affinity receptor for the Fc portion of immunoglobulin G (IgG). It plays a central role in immune regulation, particularly in mediating antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC). CD16 exists in two main isoforms: CD16a (FcγRIIIA) and CD16b (FcγRIIIB). CD16a is a transmembrane protein expressed on NK cells, macrophages, some monocytes, and mast cells, while CD16b is a GPI-anchored protein primarily found on neutrophils. Upon binding to IgG, CD16 triggers ADCC by NK cells, induces phagocytosis and oxidative burst in neutrophils/macrophages, and promotes cytokine production. Genetic variants in CD16A affect the strength of ADCC responses. CD16 is a key mediator in therapeutic antibody mechanisms against cancer.

Mechanism of Action

Binding to Fc region of IgG antibodies, triggering ADCC, phagocytosis, and cytokine production.

Biological Functions

Antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC)
Phagocytosis
Cytokine production
Immune regulation

Disease Associations

Cancer
Infection
Inflammation
Autoimmune diseases

Safety Considerations

  • Potential for off-target effects with therapeutic antibodies
  • Variability in ADCC response due to CD16A polymorphisms

Interacting Drugs

Therapeutic antibodies (e.g., monoclonal antibodies)
Engineered antibodies to enhance engagement with NK cells

Associated Biomarkers

Biomarker
CD16A allelic variants (Val158/Phe158)
CD16 expression levels on NK cells and other immune cells