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CD48: A co-stimulatory receptor of immunity

Moran Elishmereni1, Francesca Levi-Schaffer

  • 1Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Institute for Drug Research, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel.

The International Journal of Biochemistry & Cell Biology
|September 14, 2010
PubMed

Insights

The CD48 molecule, a cell-surface protein, plays a key role in immune responses by interacting with other cells. Its functions in various immune cells and potential therapeutic applications are highlighted.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Cell Biology
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • CD48 is a glycosyl-phosphatidyl-inositol (GPI)-anchored cell-surface protein belonging to the CD2 family.
  • Initially identified on virally-induced B cells, CD48 is expressed on various hematopoietic cells and its expression is modulated by immune factors.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the structural and phenotypic characteristics of CD48.
  • To elucidate the role of CD48 in physiological and pathophysiological processes.
  • To discuss potential CD48-based therapeutic applications for immune and inflammatory disorders.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of CD48's structure, function, and interactions.
  • Analysis of CD48's role in immune cell signaling and adhesion.
  • Exploration of CD48's involvement in immune-related diseases.

Main Results:

  • CD48 binds to ligands such as 2B4, mediating cell-cell interactions.
  • Despite lacking an intracellular domain, CD48 stimulation triggers intracellular signaling events, including Lck-kinase activity and tyrosine phosphorylation.
  • CD48 acts as an adhesion and co-stimulatory molecule, influencing B and T lymphocytes, natural killer cells, mast cells, and eosinophils.

Conclusions:

  • CD48 is a significant molecule in immune cell function and regulation.
  • Understanding CD48's mechanisms offers potential for novel therapeutic strategies in immune and inflammatory conditions.

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