Anti-CD74 antibody [CLIP/813]

Supplementary info

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Activity summary

CD74 also known as the invariant chain or li is a protein with a mass of about 33 kDa. It is widely expressed on the surface of immune cells such as B cells dendritic cells and macrophages. CD74 plays an important role in the immune system by acting as a chaperone for major histocompatibility complex class II (MHC II) molecules guiding their migration to endosomes where they encounter antigenic peptides. The CD74 protein also functions as a cell surface receptor for macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) enhancing the immune response process.

Biological function summary

CD74 facilitates multiple immune regulatory processes. It forms a complex with the MHC II molecules aiding in their proper folding and peptide loading in the endoplasmic reticulum. This complex then travels through the Golgi apparatus towards the lysosomal compartments where antigens are presented to initiate adaptive immune responses. In addition CD74 is involved in signal transduction pathways that regulate cell proliferation and survival influenced by interactions with MIF and other molecules.

Pathways

The role of CD74 extends into both the antigen presentation and MIF signaling pathways. Within the antigen presentation pathway CD74's activity is tightly connected with MHC II and subsequently to CD4+ T cells facilitating the activation of these immune cells. The MIF signaling pathway involves CD74 interacting with CD44 a receptor that further propagates the signaling cascades essential for immune modulation and cell survival.

Associated diseases and disorders

CD74 is linked to inflammatory and autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. Aberrant expression of CD74 influences the presentation of autoantigens and may contribute to the chronic inflammation seen in these disorders. Its connection to MIF which is a pro-inflammatory cytokine further implicates CD74 in these autoimmune scenarios by promoting persistent immune activation. Researchers are also exploring CD74 as a therapeutic target in certain cancers due to its influence on immune surveillance and tumor progression.