FITC Anti-CD8 antibody [12C7]

Supplementary info

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

Activity summary

CD8 also known as CD8a or Leu-2 is a glycoprotein with a molecular weight of approximately 32 kDa. It is prominently expressed on the surface of cytotoxic T lymphocytes. These CD8 molecules facilitate the interaction between T cells and antigen-presenting cells by binding to major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules. This interaction is essential for the immune system to recognize and destroy infected or cancerous cells. CD8 is often identified using various markers like CD8 FITC CD8 APC and CD8 PerCP which are used in flow cytometry for cell sorting and analysis.

Biological function summary

CD8 plays a significant role in the adaptive immune response. It is not part of a multimeric complex but functions as a co-receptor that enhances the recognition of antigens by the T cell receptor (TCR). The presence of CD8 molecules aids the activation of T cells leading to their proliferation and the effective targeting and elimination of pathogens or abnormal cells. The ability of CD8 to bind to MHC class I molecules allows cytotoxic T cells to detect and respond to nearly all nucleated cells in the body.

Pathways

CD8 is integral in both the T cell receptor signaling pathway and the induction of apoptosis. In the T cell receptor signaling pathway CD8 works closely with other proteins like Lck and ZAP-70 to transmit signals upon TCR-MHC class I engagement. This promotes T cell activation cytokine production and cell division. Furthermore CD8's interaction with Fas ligand pathways contributes to the initiation of programmed cell death which is important for maintaining immune homeostasis and preventing overreaction of the immune system.

Associated diseases and disorders

CD8 T cells are significant in the context of viral infections and autoimmune diseases. For example during HIV infection the depletion of CD8 T cells impairs the immune response allowing the virus to evade the immune system. Additionally in autoimmune disorders like Type 1 diabetes CD8 T cells mistakenly target and destroy insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. These pathological processes also involve proteins such as MHC class I and other immune modulators like interleukins that modulate CD8 T cell activity and differentiation.