— Testing Panel

Natural Killer Cell (NK)

Natural Killer (NK) Cell Test Comprehensive Analysis of NK Cell Quantity, Activity, and Function

NK cells are a crucial first line of immune defense against viruses and tumor cells. This test accurately quantifies NK cell number, activity, and function, helping evaluate immune status, disease risk, and treatment response.

Natural Killer Cell (NK)

Immune Defense Assessment

Evaluate the body's first line of immune defense and overall resistance.

Functional Activity Analysis

Assess NK cell activity and effector functions.

Disease Risk Monitoring

Identify potential risks for infections, cancers, and other diseases.

Treatment Efficacy Monitoring

Monitor immune response and treatment outcomes in real time.

Applicable To

General Population

Health screening, immune assessment, and self-care management.

Cancer Patients

Monitor immune status, therapy response, and recurrence risk.

Chronic Disease Patients

Evaluate immune function in chronic or autoimmune diseases.

High-Risk Individuals

Individuals with high stress, poor sleep, or family history of cancer.

Test Markers

Comprehensive analysis of multiple markers to evaluate NK cell number, activity, and function.

Phenotypic Markers

  • CD3
  • CD56
  • CD16
  • CD69
  • NKG2D
  • NKp46

Activation / Functional Markers

  • CD107a (Degranulation)
  • IFN-γ (Cytokine)
  • TNF-α (Cytokine)
  • Granzyme B (Cytotoxic)
  • Perforin (Cytotoxic)

Subset Markers

  • CD56bright NK (Regulatory)
  • CD56dim NK (Cytotoxic)
  • CD16+ / CD16- Ratio

Test Process

  1. Blood Collection

    Blood Collection

    Collect peripheral blood sample

  2. Cell Isolation

    Cell Isolation

    Isolate target cells and prepare for staining

  3. Functional Stimulation

    Functional Stimulation

    Stimulate cells and perform functional assays

  4. Flow Cytometry Analysis

    Flow Cytometry Analysis

    Multiparametric flow cytometry analysis

  5. AI Analysis

    AI Analysis

    AI algorithm analysis for immune function insights

  6. Report Generation

    Report Generation

    Expert report interpretation and results

  7. Clinical Application

    Clinical Application

    Provide personalized recommendations and follow-up management

Multiparametric Immunofluorescence Imaging Examples

* Images are for reference only. Actual results may vary.

CD3 (T Cells)

CD3 (T Cells)

CD56 (NK Cells)

CD56 (NK Cells)

CD16 (Activated NK)

CD16 (Activated NK)

CD69 (Activated NK)

CD69 (Activated NK)

Composite Image

Composite Image

NK Cell Reference Ranges

Parameter Reference Range (%) Clinical Significance
NK Cell Ratio (CD3-CD56+) 5 – 20 Reflects overall NK cell quantity
CD56bright NK Ratio 10 – 40 Immune regulation indicator
CD56dim NK Ratio 60 – 90 Cytotoxic function indicator
Activated NK Cells (CD69+) 5 – 25 Immune activation indicator
Degranulation (CD107a+) 10 – 30 Cytotoxic function indicator
IFN-γ Secreting Ability Varies by condition Immune response capability indicator

* Reference ranges may vary depending on laboratory methods and individual conditions.

Clinical Applications

Cancer Immunotherapy Evaluation

Monitor immune response and optimize cancer immunotherapy strategies.

Infection and Risk Assessment

Assess infection risk and immune vulnerability.

Immune Function Evaluation

Evaluate immune function in fatigue, stress, and chronic disease.

Health Promotion and Disease Prevention

Enhance health and reduce disease risk through immune monitoring.

Key Features

  • Multiparametric flow cytometry for comprehensive analysis
  • Quantify NK cell number and subset activation levels
  • Evaluate cytotoxic function and cytokine secretion capacity
  • Early detection of immune dysfunction or abnormalities
  • AI-powered analysis for precise and integrated reporting
  • Provide personalized health recommendations and follow-up strategies

Test Specifications

  • Sample Type: Peripheral Blood (5–10 mL)
  • Test Method: Multiparametric Flow Cytometry
  • Turnaround Time: 7–10 Business Days
  • Applicable Population: Adults and Children
  • Report Contents: NK cell quantity, subset distribution, activation status, functional capacity analysis, and clinical recommendations.

Important Notes

  • No fasting required
  • Avoid strenuous exercise 24 hours prior to sample collection
  • Inform your physician of current medications and medical history
  • If you have an infectious disease or are under treatment, please inform your physician
  • Test results should be interpreted by a professional physician in conjunction with clinical findings

FAQ

Q.Can the NK Cell Test reflect immune function?

Yes. NK cells are a key component of the innate immune system, and their quantity and activity can reflect the body's ability to defend against viral infections, tumor cells, and abnormal cells.

Q.What does low NK cell activity indicate?

Reduced NK cell activity may be associated with weakened immunity, chronic infections, stress, insufficient sleep, aging, or an increased risk of cancer, and should be evaluated further.

Q.How often should I take the test?

Testing every 6–12 months is generally recommended. Individuals with cancer, chronic infections, or immune dysfunction may benefit from more frequent monitoring based on physician recommendations.

Q.Who should consider an NK Cell Test?

The test is recommended for cancer patients, individuals with chronic infections, those with weakened immune systems, high-stress populations, and anyone interested in preventive health management.

Q.What should I do if my results are abnormal?

Abnormal results should be interpreted by a healthcare professional in combination with clinical symptoms, medical history, and other diagnostic findings to guide personalized recommendations.

Q.Can the NK Cell Test be used to monitor treatment outcomes?

Yes. Monitoring changes in NK cell levels and activity can help evaluate responses to immunotherapy, cancer treatments, and health management interventions.

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