CD2
CD2 (Cluster of Differentiation 2) is a cell adhesion molecule found on the surface of T cells and natural killer (NK) cells. It has been identified as a target for immunosuppressive therapies and plays a crucial role in the immune response and T cell activation.
Structure[edit | edit source]
CD2 is a transmembrane glycoprotein that belongs to the immunoglobulin superfamily. It consists of an extracellular domain, a transmembrane domain, and a cytoplasmic tail. The extracellular domain is responsible for binding to its ligand, CD58, while the cytoplasmic tail is involved in signal transduction.
Function[edit | edit source]
CD2 plays a key role in the immune response by mediating adhesion and signal transduction in T cells and NK cells. It interacts with CD58 on antigen-presenting cells, leading to the activation of T cells and the initiation of the immune response. CD2 also plays a role in the formation of the immunological synapse, a specialized contact area between T cells and antigen-presenting cells where signal transduction occurs.
Clinical significance[edit | edit source]
Alterations in CD2 expression or function have been associated with various diseases, including autoimmune disorders and cancers. In autoimmune diseases, abnormal CD2 expression can lead to the activation of autoreactive T cells, contributing to tissue damage. In cancers, particularly lymphomas and leukemias, CD2 can be overexpressed, promoting tumor growth and survival.
Therapeutic potential[edit | edit source]
Due to its role in T cell activation, CD2 has been identified as a target for immunosuppressive therapies. Drugs that block CD2-CD58 interaction can inhibit T cell activation, potentially reducing the severity of autoimmune diseases or preventing transplant rejection.
See also:
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