CD59
Function
Potent inhibitor of the complement membrane attack complex (MAC) action. Acts by binding to the C8 and/or C9 complements of the assembling MAC, thereby preventing incorporation of the multiple copies of C9 required for complete formation of the osmolytic pore.
Tissue Specificity
Expressed in all tissues tested (lung, testis liver, kidney, spleen, heart and skeletal muscle). Highest levels in lung and spleen, lowest levels in liver and skeletal muscle.
Cellular localization
- Cell membrane
- Lipid-anchor
- GPI-anchor
Alternative names
CD59, CD59 glycoprotein, MAC-inhibitory protein, Membrane attack complex inhibition factor, Protectin, MAC-IP, MACIF