CD63 Antigen (CD63) Antibody (FITC)

Background

CD63 molecule (CD63) is a transmembrane protein that belongs to the tetraspanin family, widely expressed in a variety of cell types and tissues. It plays a significant role in multiple biological processes, including immune response, cell adhesion, and intracellular trafficking. CD63 is prominently localized on late endosomes, lysosomes, and the plasma membrane, where it participates in the regulation of membrane fusion and vesicle trafficking. One of its most recognized roles is as a marker of exosomes, small extracellular vesicles released by cells, which makes it pivotal in cell-to-cell communication and a key target in exosome research for diagnostics and therapeutics. CD63 also interacts with integrins and other tetraspanins, facilitating cell adhesion and migration, processes that are critical in immune surveillance and tissue repair. It is involved in the activation of basophils and mast cells, contributing to allergic responses. Additionally, aberrations in CD63 expression or function are linked to pathological conditions, such as cancer metastasis, where it influences tumor cell invasiveness and immune evasion. Its expression has also been implicated in autoimmune diseases and infections. Given its multifunctional role and association with several diseases, CD63 continues to be an important molecule in immunological and biomedical research.