Gosset Molecular Classification
Immune effector mechanism, Complement pathway
Disease Roles
Complement-Dependent Cytotoxicity Overview
Complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) is an immune effector mechanism in which antibodies bind to antigens on target cells and activate the classical complement pathway, leading to the formation of a membrane attack complex (MAC) and cell lysis. It is utilized by some therapeutic monoclonal antibodies to kill cancer or infected cells. Resistance can occur through upregulation of complement regulatory proteins.
Mechanism of Action
Antibody binds antigen, activates classical complement pathway, forms membrane attack complex (MAC), leading to cell lysis.
Biological Functions
Cell lysis
Immune response
Cell death
Disease Associations
Cancer
Infection
Safety Considerations
- Uncontrolled complement activation leading to off-target cell lysis
- Resistance mechanisms via complement regulatory proteins (CD46, CD55, CD59)
Interacting Drugs
Rituximab