CD101 is a protein scientists investigate for its roles within the body’s defense system. This molecule, found on various cell surfaces, contributes to how immune cells communicate and function. Studying CD101 provides insights into the intricate processes that maintain health and respond to challenges, helping researchers understand immune regulation.
What is CD101?
CD101 belongs to the Cluster of Differentiation (CD) markers, which are identification tags on cell surfaces that help categorize cell types and their roles. CD101 is a cell surface receptor, receiving signals from its environment. It is also known as Immunoglobulin Superfamily member 2 (IGSF2) or V7. This protein is classified as a type I transmembrane glycoprotein, weighing between 130 and 145 kilodaltons. Its structure includes a Glu-Trp-Ile (EWI) motif and seven immunoglobulin-like V-type domains within its extracellular portion.
Where is CD101 Found?
CD101 is primarily expressed on various immune cells, indicating its involvement in the body’s defense. It is notably found on T cells, a type of white blood cell central to adaptive immunity, with expression particularly observed on activated T cells and regulatory T cells. Other immune cells expressing CD101 include monocytes, dendritic cells, and granulocytes. Beyond circulating immune cells, CD101 is also detected in specific tissues such as the lung, thymus, and small intestine. Its presence extends to Langerhans cells, a type of dendritic cell in the skin, and certain leukemic cells.
How CD101 Influences the Immune System
CD101 modulates immune responses, often acting as an inhibitory signal that regulates immune cell activity. It can inhibit the proliferation of T cells, a process triggered by the T cell receptor/CD3 complex. This protein impedes the expression of IL-2RA and the secretion of IL-2 on activated T cells. CD101 also interferes with tyrosine kinases, necessary for IL-2 production and cell proliferation, and prevents the nuclear translocation of the nuclear factor of activated T-cell.
CD101’s influence extends to immune tolerance, where the immune system learns not to attack the body’s own tissues. When CD101 is engaged on cutaneous dendritic cells, it can induce IL-10 secretion, an anti-inflammatory cytokine that suppresses T cell proliferation. Its expression on regulatory T cells (Tregs) is associated with their capacity to suppress other immune cells, contributing to immune balance. CD8+ T cells lacking CD101 expression show greater cytotoxic activity, suggesting CD101 can temper their killing potential. Variations in the CD101 gene can lead to altered T cell function, potentially increasing pro-inflammatory cytokines and reducing Treg ability to suppress immune responses.
CD101’s Role in Medical Insights
Studying CD101 provides insights into immunological processes, helping scientists comprehend how immune responses are fine-tuned. This research contributes to knowledge about immune cell communication and regulation. The presence and function of CD101 on various immune cells also make it a subject of interest for its potential as a biomarker.
Genetic variations in CD101 have been linked to an increased risk of acquiring HIV. In individuals with inflammatory bowel disease, reduced CD101 expression on monocytes and CD4+ T cells correlates with heightened IL-17 production and increased disease activity. In certain cancers, such as glioma, elevated CD101 levels on tumor-associated macrophages have been associated with an unfavorable clinical outlook, suggesting its involvement in shaping the immune environment within tumors. The co-expression of CD101 with CD38 on specific T cells in ovarian cancer patients may also serve as an indicator for diagnosis and evaluating treatment efficacy.
CD101 has been identified as a susceptibility gene for Type 1 Diabetes, indicating its relevance across a spectrum of immune-related conditions. Understanding CD101’s role in suppressing T-cell activity makes it a potential subject for future scientific exploration aimed at developing strategies to modulate immune responses.