B-Cell Maturation Antigen Protein

Background

TNFRSF17, also known as B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA), is a receptor within the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily (TNFRSF). It is primarily expressed on B cells, specifically on mature and plasma B cells, where it plays a pivotal role in B cell survival, differentiation, and immunoglobulin secretion. TNFRSF17 is unique among TNFRSF members because of its specificity for binding ligands like APRIL (A Proliferation-Inducing Ligand) and BAFF (B-cell Activating Factor), which are members of the TNF ligand superfamily. BCMA is essential for maintaining long-lived plasma cells and for regulating immune responses, particularly in the context of adaptive immunity. TNFRSF17, also known as B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA), is a receptor within the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily (TNFRSF). It is primarily expressed on B cells, specifically on mature and plasma B cells, where it plays a pivotal role in B cell survival, differentiation, and immunoglobulin secretion. TNFRSF17 is unique among TNFRSF members because of its specificity for binding ligands like APRIL (A Proliferation-Inducing Ligand) and BAFF (B-cell Activating Factor), which are members of the TNF ligand superfamily. BCMA is essential for maintaining long-lived plasma cells and for regulating immune responses, particularly in the context of adaptive immunity.