T-Cell Surface Glycoprotein CD8 Beta Chain (CD8B) Antibody

Background

The CD8B gene encodes the beta subunit of the CD8 glycoprotein, which typically pairs with CD8A to form the CD8αβ heterodimer. This structure is primarily expressed on cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs), enabling T-cell recognition of MHC class I-peptide complexes. CD8B plays a key role in enhancing TCR signaling and antigen-specific responses by associating with the intracellular signaling protein Lck (lymphocyte-specific protein tyrosine kinase). Unlike CD8A, CD8B is required for high-affinity TCR interactions, making it critical for T-cell activation and target cell lysis. CD8B expression is tightly regulated during T-cell development in the thymus. Dysregulation of CD8B may lead to impaired immune responses, contributing to susceptibility to infections and autoimmune disorders.