Perforin is a protein released by cytotoxic T cells and natural killer (NK) cells that forms pores in the membranes of target cells. This action leads to cell lysis and death of the infected or malignant cells.
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Perforin is crucial for the function of cytotoxic T lymphocytes and NK cells in the immune response.
It facilitates the entry of granzymes into target cells, which are enzymes that induce apoptosis.
Perforin's pore-forming mechanism is similar to that of complement proteins in the innate immune system.
A deficiency or malfunction in perforin can lead to severe immune disorders such as familial hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (FHL).
Perforin works by binding to calcium ions, which helps it insert into the lipid bilayer of target cell membranes.
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Related terms
Granzyme: Enzymes released by cytotoxic T cells and NK cells that enter target cells through perforin-created pores and induce apoptosis.
Cytotoxic T Cells: A subtype of T lymphocytes that kill cancer cells, virus-infected cells, and damaged cells.
Natural Killer Cells: Immune system lymphocytes that play a role in the destruction of virally infected cells and tumor formation without prior activation.