| Modification Notes |
Granulysin (NKG5) is a saposin-like protein (SAPLIP) that is expressed in granular cells and functions as an effector molecule for antimicrobial responses in the hematopoietic system. Upon antigen stimulation generated from intracellular pathogens such as bacteria, fungi, and parasites, granulysin mediates the release of cytotoxic granules from Cytolytic T lymphocytes (CTLs) and Natural killer cells (NKs), a process that can lead to apoptosis. The potent antimicrobial activity of granulysin may occur through elevated pathogen host-cell permeability and lysis. Human granulysin is expressed as proteins of two sizes derived from three unique transcripts. Granulysin expressing CTLs, in the presence of perforin, can kill extracellular and intracellular Mycobacterium tuberculosis through a granule-dependent mechanism, suggesting that granulysin may play a broad role in T cell mediated host protection against certain pathogens. |