The CD8A protein, or CD8 alpha chain, is encoded by the CD8A gene on chromosome 2p12. The CD8A gene consists of 235 amino acids, resulting in a molecular weight of about 25-30 kDa. CD8A is a transmembrane glycoprotein coreceptor for the T cell receptor (TCR) during T cell activation. Post-translational modifications of CD8A include phosphorylation, glycosylation, and the formation of disulfide bonds, which are crucial for its stability and function. As a membrane protein, CD8A plays a key role in antigen recognition and immune response against infected or cancerous cells.
This antigen is primarily expressed on cytotoxic T cells (i.e., CD8+ T cells). CD8A expression is regulated during T cell development and activation, influenced by various cytokines and signaling pathways and associated with immune-related disorders and diseases, including autoimmune conditions and immunodeficiency syndromes. The expression of this protein has been utilized as a marker of cytotoxic T cell infiltration in tumors, providing valuable prognostic information in cancer patients. High levels of CD8A expression, indicative of cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs), within the tumor microenvironment, have been associated with better prognosis and improved survival outcomes in various types of cancer, including melanoma, colorectal, ovarian, and breast cancer. These results are because the infiltration of CD8+ T cells into tumors reflects an active antitumor immune response, with these cells playing a crucial role in recognizing and eliminating cancer cells. Thus, CD8A expression levels are often used as a biomarker to assess the extent of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and to predict the likelihood of response to immunotherapy. In clinical practice, assessing CD8A expression in tumor samples through immunohistochemistry or other techniques can provide valuable diagnostic and prognostic information, guiding treatment decisions and patient management strategies.
NeoBiotechnologies offers a variety of antibodies against CD8A that have been validated for ELISA, flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, and immunohistochemistry, as well as a Hu-Prot-validated option. Additionally, we hold exclusive rights to CD8A antibodies available for licensing or collaboration [https://www.neobiotechnologies.com/shop/?s=cd8a].
Synonyms
T-cell surface glycoprotein CD8 alpha chain, T-lymphocyte differentiation antigen T8/Leu-2, CD8 antigen, alpha polypeptide (p32), T8/Leu-2 T-lymphocyte differentiation antigen, Ly3, LYT3, MAL, T-cell surface glycoprotein CD8 alpha chain
Research Areas
Cardiovascular, Immunology, Dendritic Cell Marker, Hematopoietic Stem Cells, PD-1 blockade immunotherapy