P01732

CD8a also known as CD8α, Leu-2, T8, CD8alpha is a transmembrane glycoprotein expressed on the surface of cytotoxic T lymphocytes and some natural killer cells. CD8a plays a crucial role in adaptive immune response. Structurally, CD8a forms either homodimers (αα) or heterodimers with CD8-β (αβ), featuring an extracellular immunoglobulin-like domain that binds to the α3 domain of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules presented by antigen-presenting cells (APCs). This structural configuration facilitates interaction between T cells and APCs, enhancing antigen recognition and signal transduction through T cell receptor (TCR). Any alterations in CD8a′s structure can affect immune surveillance and cytotoxic T cells′ ability to identify and eliminate infected or malignant cells.