CD217. also known as interleukin-17 receptor A (IL-17RA), is a key component of the IL-17 receptor family, which mediates pro-inflammatory signaling in immune responses. As the common subunit shared by receptors for IL-17A, IL-17F, and other IL-17 family cytokines, CD217 plays a critical role in host defense and inflammatory diseases. It is expressed on epithelial cells, fibroblasts, and immune cells, facilitating signaling cascades that activate NF-κB and MAPK pathways, driving the production of inflammatory mediators like cytokines and chemokines.
CD217 antibodies are tools designed to target this receptor, either to block IL-17 signaling for therapeutic purposes or to study its biological functions. Dysregulated IL-17/CD217 signaling is implicated in autoimmune conditions such as psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, and inflammatory bowel disease. Therapeutic anti-CD217 antibodies aim to inhibit pathogenic inflammation by preventing IL-17 binding or receptor activation. Research-grade antibodies are widely used in immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry, and functional assays to explore receptor expression, ligand interactions, and downstream effects.
The development of CD217-targeting biologics highlights its clinical relevance, though most approved IL-17 inhibitors (e.g., secukinumab) currently target the cytokine IL-17A rather than the receptor itself. Ongoing studies continue to evaluate CD217 as a potential therapeutic target for immune-mediated disorders.