Cluster of Differentiation
Cluster of Differentiation (pronunciation: /ˈklʌstər ɒv ˌdɪfəˈrɛnʃiˈeɪʃən/), often abbreviated as CD, is a protocol used for the identification and investigation of cell surface molecules present on leukocytes. The term "Cluster of Differentiation" is derived from the English words "cluster" (a group of similar things or people positioned or occurring closely together) and "differentiation" (the process in which cells or tissues undergo a change toward a more specialized form or function).
Etymology
The term "Cluster of Differentiation" was first used in the late 20th century. It was coined during a series of international workshops intended to classify the markers seen on the surface of leukocytes. The term "cluster" was chosen to reflect the method of identifying a group of tests that all recognized the same molecule, while "differentiation" refers to the function of these molecules in the process of cell differentiation.
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