CD53 antibody targets the CD53 antigen, a cell surface glycoprotein belonging to the transmembrane 4 superfamily (TM4SF), also known as tetraspanins. CD53 is primarily expressed on immune cells, including T cells, B cells, natural killer (NK) cells, dendritic cells, and monocytes. It plays a role in cell signaling, adhesion, and immune regulation by interacting with other membrane proteins, such as integrins and major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules. Structurally, CD53 contains four transmembrane domains and forms complexes with partner molecules to modulate cellular processes like migration, activation, and proliferation.
CD53 antibodies are widely used in research to study immune cell function and disease mechanisms. They serve as tools in flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, and Western blotting to identify CD53-expressing cell populations or assess protein expression levels. In pathological contexts, CD53 has been implicated in immune-related disorders and cancers. For example, altered CD53 expression is observed in certain leukemias, lymphomas, and autoimmune diseases, suggesting its potential as a biomarker or therapeutic target.
Despite its recognized role in immunity, the precise molecular mechanisms of CD53 remain partially unclear. Studies using CD53 antibodies have helped elucidate its involvement in immune synapse formation, cytokine secretion, and tumor microenvironment interactions. These antibodies are critical for exploring CD53's contributions to both normal immune responses and disease progression, highlighting their importance in immunology and oncology research.