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DC-STAMP, a novel multimembrane-spanning molecule preferentially expressed by dendritic cells
F C Hartgers1, J L Vissers, M W Looman
1Department of Tumor Immunology, University Medical Center Nijmegen St. Radboud, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
European Journal of Immunology
|February 13, 2001
Summary
Researchers identified a novel DC-specific transmembrane protein (DC-STAMP) in dendritic cells (DC). This protein is expressed on the cell surface and may play a role in DC function.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Dendritic cells (DCs) are crucial for initiating immune responses due to their antigen-presenting capabilities.
- Understanding DC-specific genes is key to elucidating their potent antigen presentation mechanisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and characterize novel genes specifically expressed by dendritic cells.
- To investigate the function and localization of a newly discovered DC-specific gene.
Main Methods:
- Isolation of a novel transcript via random sequencing of a monocyte-derived DC cDNA library.
- Analysis of DC-STAMP expression in various immune and non-immune cells.
- Expression of a DC-STAMP-GFP fusion protein in 293 cells to determine protein localization.
Main Results:
- A novel transcript, DC-specific transmembrane protein (DC-STAMP), was identified.
- DC-STAMP is specifically expressed in dendritic cells (DCs) and activated, but not resting, blood DCs.
- DC-STAMP encodes a 470-amino acid protein with seven transmembrane domains, localized to the cell surface.
- No sequence homology was found with existing proteins, suggesting a novel protein family.
Conclusions:
- DC-STAMP is a novel, DC-specific, multi-transmembrane protein.
- This discovery represents a new class of transmembrane proteins.
- DC-STAMP may contribute to the unique antigen-presenting functions of dendritic cells.