Mouse T-Cell Surface Glycoprotein CD8 Alpha Chain (CD8A) Protein

Background

The CD8A gene encodes the alpha subunit of the CD8 glycoprotein, a key co-receptor expressed on the surface of cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CD8+ T cells). CD8A typically forms a heterodimer with CD8B or a homodimer (CD8αα). This protein plays a central role in T-cell activation and immune surveillance by interacting with MHC class I molecules on antigen-presenting cells. The interaction stabilizes the binding of the T-cell receptor (TCR) to antigenic peptides presented by MHC class I, facilitating signal transduction and T-cell-mediated cytotoxic responses. CD8A expression is essential for the development and maturation of CD8+ T cells in the thymus. It also participates in the immune response against viral infections, tumors, and intracellular pathogens. Mutations or dysregulation of CD8A can impair T-cell function and immune homeostasis.