NKG2D serves as an activating receptor that enhances the cytotoxic activity of NK cells and CD8+ T cells. When NKG2D binds to its ligands on target cells, it triggers a cascade of intracellular signals that result in the release of cytotoxic granules, containing perforin and granzymes, leading to the lysis of the target cell. Additionally, NKG2D can promote the production of cytokines like interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), which further amplifies the immune response.
