CD Antigens

Key Biological Properties: CD36 is a type 2 cell surface scavenger receptor widely expressed in various immune and non-immune cells . It functions as both a signaling receptor and a long-chain free fatty acid transporter .

Expression Patterns and Tissue Distribution: CD36 is expressed on the surface of many cell types, including macrophages, endothelial cells, adipocytes, and muscle cells . It is also found in the heart, skeletal muscle, and adipose tissue .

Primary Biological Functions: CD36 plays a crucial role in lipid metabolism, immune response, and angiogenesis . It is involved in the uptake of fatty acids, cholesterol, and oxidized low-density lipoproteins .

Role in Immune Responses and Pathogen Recognition: CD36 acts as a pattern recognition receptor, recognizing pathogen-associated molecular patterns and damage-associated molecular patterns . It is involved in the immune response against microbial pathogens and the clearance of apoptotic cells .

Mechanisms with Other Molecules and Cells: CD36 interacts with various ligands, including thrombospondin-1, thrombospondin-2, and oxidized phospholipids . It also forms complexes with other receptors, such as Toll-like receptors, to mediate immune responses .

Binding Partners and Downstream Signaling Cascades: CD36 binding to its ligands triggers downstream signaling cascades that influence cell differentiation, activation, and fate . These signaling pathways are crucial for metabolic reprogramming and immune cell function .

Transcriptional Regulation: CD36 expression is regulated by several transcription factors, including peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) and activating transcription factor 2 (ATF2) . These factors bind to enhancer regions of the CD36 gene to modulate its expression .

Post-Translational Modifications: CD36 undergoes various post-translational modifications, such as glycosylation, which affect its stability and function .

Biomedical Research: CD36 is a valuable target in biomedical research due to its role in lipid metabolism and immune response . It is studied in the context of metabolic diseases, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer .

Diagnostic Tools and Therapeutic Strategies: CD36 is explored as a potential biomarker for various diseases, including atherosclerosis and cancer . Therapeutic strategies targeting CD36 include monoclonal antibodies and small-molecule inhibitors .

Development to Aging and Disease: CD36 plays a role throughout the life cycle, from development to aging . It is involved in muscle lipid uptake, adipose energy storage, and gut fat absorption . Dysregulation of CD36 is associated with various diseases, including diabetes, atherosclerosis, and cancer .