Cellular expression of the cytolytic factor in earthworms Eisenia foetida.

Coelomic fluid of earthworms contains a 42 kDa protein designated CCF-1 (coelomic cytolytic factor 1), which accounts for approximately 40% of cytolytic activity of the entire coelomic fluid. CCF-1 was documented to be present on cells of the mesenchymal lining of the coelomic cavity as well as on free coelomocytes. Both cellular and humoral levels of CCF-1 were significantly increased after parenteral injection of endotoxin. Moreover, CCF-1 seems to be involved in cell mediated cytotoxicity, because cytotoxic activity is blocked in the presence of anti-CCF-1 monoclonal antibody (mAb).