Cd16

Marker for: NK cells, macrophages, neutrophil granulocytes.

Note: CD 16 designates two surface proteins from the group of Fc receptors:

• CD16a
• CD16b

(see also below) Cluster of differentiation

The receptor protein CD 16 is encoded by the FCGR3A gene. The FCGR3A gene is located on chromosome 1q23.3 and encodes CD16. Antigen-antibody complexes are cleared from the bloodstream via this receptor for the Fc portion of immunoglobulin G. The receptor protein binds to antigen-antibody complexes. The receptor protein binds complexed or aggregated IgG and also monomeric IgG. Mediates antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) and other antibody-dependent responses, such as phagocytosis. Furthermore, the receptor protein is involved in antibody-dependent cellular-mediated cytotoxicity and antibody-dependent enhancement of viral infections.

1. de Vries et al.(1996) Identification of an unusual Fc-gamma receptor IIIa (CD16) on natural killer cells in a patient with recurrent infections. Blood 88: 3022-3027.
2. Grier JT et al (2012) Human immunodeficiency-causing mutation defines CD16 in spontaneous NK cell cytotoxicity. J Clin Invest 122: 3769-3780.
3. Liu B et al (2019) Polymorphism of FCGR3A gene in chronic beryllium disease. Genes Immun 20: 493-499.