background:
The CD8 antigen is a cell surface glycoprotein found on most cytotoxic T lymphocytes that mediates efficient cell-cell interactions within the immune system. The CD8 antigen acts as a coreceptor with the T-cell receptor on the T lymphocyte to recognize antigens displayed by an antigen presenting cell in the context of class I MHC molecules. The coreceptor functions as either a homodimer composed of two alpha chains or as a heterodimer composed of one alpha and one beta chain. Both alpha and beta chains share significant homology to immunoglobulin variable light chains. This gene encodes the CD8 alpha chain. Multiple transcript variants encoding different isoforms have been found for this gene. [provided by RefSeq, Nov 2011].
Subunit:
In general heterodimer of an alpha and a beta chain linked by two disulfide bonds. Can also form homodimers. Shown to be expressed as heterodimer on thymocytes and as homodimer on peripheral blood T-lymphocytes. Interacts with the MHC class I HLA-A/B2M dimer. Interacts with LCK in a zinc-dependent manner.
Subcellular Location:
Isoform 1: Cell membrane; Single-pass type I membrane protein.
Isoform 2: Secreted.
Similarity:
Contains 1 Ig-like SLVtype (immunoglobulin-like) domain.
Important Note:
This product as supplied is intended for research use only, not for use in human, therapeutic or diagnostic applications.
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