Mechanisms of Immune Lysis. III. Characterization of the Nature and Kinetics of the Cytotoxic T Lymphocytes-Induced Nuclear Lesion in the Target

The experiments reported here demonstrate that the event leading to CTL-induced nuclear disintegration is kinetically similar (t sub(1/2 = 3.1 plus or minus 0.8 min) to that reported for CTL-induced plasma membrane disintegration as measured ) super(5)1r) release. In addition, the authors have demonstrated that the rapid super(125)IUdR release characteristic of CTL-lysed targets is specific for the nucleus within the target cell itself. Finally, they have characterized CTL-induced nuclear lesion as a degradative process occurring within the plasma membrane of the target cell. The significance of these events and their relationship to CTL's role in the host defence system is discussed.