CD46 Antibody

CD46, also known as Membrane Cofactor Protein (MCP), is a type I membrane glycoprotein that plays a crucial role in the regulation of the complement system. It is ubiquitously expressed on all nucleated cells and serves as a cofactor for the serine protease factor I, which mediates the inactivation of C3b and C4b deposited on host cells . This function is vital in preventing complement-mediated damage to host tissues.

CD46 was first discovered in 1986 during a search for novel C3b-binding proteins . Its primary function is to protect host cells from complement-mediated injury by facilitating the cleavage of C3b and C4b into inactive fragments. This process is essential for maintaining self-tolerance and preventing autoimmune reactions.

In addition to its role in complement regulation, CD46 has been found to participate in various other biological processes, including the modulation of adaptive immune responses. It is involved in the regulation of T helper type 1 (Th1) immune responses by influencing the production of interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) and interleukin-10 (IL-10) within these cells . This dual role in both innate and adaptive immunity underscores the importance of CD46 in maintaining immune homeostasis.

Deficiency or dysfunction of CD46 is associated with several disease conditions. For instance, mutations in the CD46 gene can predispose individuals to atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS), a rare but severe condition characterized by the destruction of red blood cells, low platelet count, and kidney failure . Additionally, CD46 has been implicated in various autoimmune diseases and infections, as many pathogens exploit CD46 as a receptor to gain entry into host cells .

Mouse anti-human CD46 antibodies are widely used in research and clinical diagnostics to study the expression and function of CD46. These antibodies are typically generated by immunizing mice with human CD46 protein, followed by the isolation and purification of the resulting antibodies. They are available in various formats, including unconjugated and fluorochrome-conjugated forms, to facilitate different experimental applications such as flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry .

Mouse anti-human CD46 antibodies are valuable tools in immunological research. They are used to investigate the role of CD46 in immune regulation, complement activation, and disease pathogenesis. For example, flow cytometric analysis using these antibodies can help quantify CD46 expression on different cell types and assess its involvement in various immune responses . Additionally, these antibodies can be used to study the mechanisms by which pathogens interact with CD46 and develop strategies to block these interactions for therapeutic purposes.