Human CD160 Antigen (CD160) Protein

Background

The CD160 molecule, encoded by the CD160 gene, is a glycoprotein primarily expressed on the surface of cytotoxic lymphocytes, including natural killer (NK) cells, NKT cells, a subset of CD8+ T cells, and certain peripheral blood T-cell populations. CD160 was first identified for its unique expression pattern on immune cells and its role in modulating cytotoxic activity, playing a critical role in immune response against tumors and infected cells. CD160 functions as a receptor that binds to a variety of ligands, notably major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules and herpesvirus entry mediator (HVEM), both of which have implications in immune activation and inhibition. CD160 serves as an immune checkpoint, similar to other co-inhibitory receptors such as CTLA-4 and PD-1, and its signaling is implicated in modulating immune responses. Its functions in immune surveillance and regulation make it particularly significant in oncology, viral immunology, and autoimmune disorders. CD160 is also characterized by its restricted expression on peripheral blood monocytes and on cells in the gastrointestinal tract, indicating its broader role in tissue-specific immune responses and homeostasis.