638-767. partial protein;. MW: 63.98kD. Purity >90% as determined by SDS-PAGE. Plays a key role in secretory granule-dependent cell death, and in defense against virus-infected or neoplastic cells. Can insert into the membrane of target cells in its calcium-bound form, oligomerize and form large pores. Promotes cytolysis and apoptosis of target cells by facilitating the uptake of cytotoxic granzymes.
The molecular basis for perforin oligomerization and transmembrane pore assembly.Baran K., Dunstone M., Chia J., Ciccone A., Browne K.A., Clarke C.J.P., Lukoyanova N., Saibil H., Whisstock J.C., Voskoboinik I., Trapani J.A.Immunity 30:684-695(2009)