violetFluor™ 450 Anti-CD8 alpha antibody [OKT8]

Supplementary info

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

Activity summary

CD8 alpha also known as CD8A or CD8 protein is a glycoprotein subunit expressed on the surface of cytotoxic T lymphocytes. It has a mass of approximately 32 kDa. Found on the surface cell membrane CD8 alpha functions primarily in the immune response specifically in the recognition of antigens bound to major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules. Often scientists use CD8 antibodies for detection and CD8 IHC or immunohistochemistry for localization studies.

Biological function summary

The CD8 alpha protein plays a critical role in T-cell mediated immune responses. It forms a heterodimer with the CD8 beta chain creating the CD8 alpha-beta complex that strengthens T-cell interaction with antigen-presenting cells. CD8 alpha also helps in signaling processes that activate T cells equipping them to destroy infected or malignant cells. Researchers often study CD8 alpha peptides to understand its interactions better.

Pathways

CD8 alpha is integral to the T-cell receptor signaling pathway and the cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) pathway. The T-cell receptor complex which includes the CD8 molecule transmits signals that are important for T-cell activation and function. CD8 interacts with key proteins such as the T-cell receptor (TCR) and MHC class I molecules facilitating targeted responses against pathogens. These pathways highlight CD8 alpha’s role in adaptive immunity.

Associated diseases and disorders

CD8 alpha is most prominently associated with viral infections and cancer. Conditions like HIV and some forms of leukemia show altered CD8 function highlighting the protein's role in immune surveillance. In HIV infection for instance CD8 T cells reduce in number impairing the immune response. CD8 alpha’s connection to the immune system places it alongside other immune proteins such as CD4 and MHC molecules in the context of immune dysfunction.