The CD20 protein, also known as MS4A1 (membrane-spanning 4-domains subfamily A member 1), is encoded by the MS4A1 gene located on chromosome 11q12.2. CD20 consists of four transmembrane helices and is a non-glycosylated phosphoprotein with a molecular weight of approximately 33–37 kDa. This protein is exclusively expressed on the surface of B cells, from early pre-B cells to mature B cells, but it is absent in plasma cells. CD20 is primarily localized to lipid rafts on the cell membrane and is involved in B cell development, differentiation, and activation. Its exact physiological function remains unclear, but it is believed to play a role in B cell signaling and calcium influx upon B cell receptor (BCR) stimulation. Various factors, including cytokines, B cell receptor signaling, and transcriptional regulators, regulate CD20 expression.
CD20 has emerged as a significant therapeutic target in various B cell-related disorders, particularly B cell malignancies such as non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Monoclonal antibodies targeting CD20, such as rituximab, ofatumumab, and obinutuzumab, have revolutionized the treatment of these diseases by selectively targeting and depleting CD20-expressing B cells through antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC), complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC), and direct induction of apoptosis. Rituximab was the first CD20-targeting antibody approved by the FDA and has been widely used in treating NHL, CLL, and other B cell disorders. Ofatumumab is another anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody approved for CLL and relapsed/refractory NHL. Obinutuzumab, a glycoengineered anti-CD20 antibody, has shown efficacy in CLL and follicular lymphoma. These CD20-targeted therapies have shown remarkable efficacy as single agents or in combination with chemotherapy, leading to improved clinical outcomes and prolonged survival in patients.
While CD20 is primarily known as a therapeutic target rather than a diagnostic or prognostic marker in disease. Its expression is widely used to guide treatment decisions, particularly in B cell malignancies such as NHL and CLL. CD20 expression levels may provide some insights into disease biology but are not routinely used for diagnostic or prognostic purposes. Instead, diagnostic and prognostic assessments of these diseases typically rely on a combination of clinical, histopathological, and genetic factors. However, CD20-positive cells can confirm the diagnosis of B cell lymphomas and leukemias and may influence treatment selection, especially when considering CD20-targeted therapies such as monoclonal antibodies.
NeoBiotechnologies offers a variety of antibodies against CD20 that have been validated for ELISA, flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, and Western blotting, as well as a HuProt-validated option. Additionally, we hold exclusive rights to CD20 antibodies available for licensing or collaboration [https://www.neobiotechnologies.com/shop/?s=CD20].
Synonyms
C-type lectin domain family 4 member K, Langerin, C-type lectin domain family 4 member K; CD207; CLEC4K; Langerhans cell specific c type lectin; Langerin
Research Areas
Immunology, Dendritic Cell Marker