CD7

CD7 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the CD7 gene. It is a member of the immunoglobulin superfamily and is found on the surface of T cells and natural killer cells.

Structure

CD7 is a transmembrane protein that is approximately 40 kDa in size. It consists of a large extracellular region, a transmembrane region, and a small cytoplasmic region. The extracellular region contains two immunoglobulin domains, which are involved in mediating interactions with other cells.

Function

CD7 plays a crucial role in T cell development and function. It is involved in the activation and proliferation of T cells, and it also plays a role in the adhesion of T cells to other cells. In addition, CD7 is involved in the activation of natural killer cells, which are important for the body's immune response to infections and cancer.

Clinical significance

Abnormal expression of CD7 is associated with several diseases. For example, loss of CD7 expression is a common feature of T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL), and it is also seen in some cases of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). On the other hand, overexpression of CD7 is seen in some cases of Sezary syndrome, a type of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma.

See also

• Cluster of differentiation
• T cell
• Natural killer cell

External links

• CD7 at the US National Library of Medicine Medical Subject Headings (MeSH)

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