anti- CD59 antibody

Background

CD59 molecule (CD59) is a small, glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored protein expressed on the surface of a wide variety of human cells. Its primary function is to inhibit the formation of the membrane attack complex (MAC) during the complement cascade, which is part of the immune system’s defense mechanism. By binding to components C8 and C9 of the complement system, CD59 prevents the insertion and polymerization of MAC into cell membranes, protecting host cells from lysis. This protective role is critical in maintaining cellular integrity and preventing autoimmune damage. CD59 also exhibits roles beyond complement regulation; it has been implicated in modulating T-cell activation and participating in signal transduction pathways through its interactions with other membrane proteins. Deficiency or dysfunction of CD59 is associated with certain pathological conditions, such as paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH), where red blood cells become highly susceptible to complement-mediated lysis. Additionally, CD59 is being studied for its potential role in cancer, as its overexpression in tumor cells may help them evade immune surveillance. Its broad cellular expression and functional versatility make CD59 a crucial regulator of immune and cellular processes.