Discussions

Cluster of differentiation (also known as differentiation group or simply Cluster of differentiation, CD) refers to the cell surface molecules used to identify those used for immune antigen recognition.
Physiologically, CD molecules are usually used as important receptors or ligands of cells; in addition, some CDs can be used in the signaling cascade of cells (cascade reaction), thereby changing the behavior of cells; some CD proteins are not related to cell communication, but has other functions, such as cell adhesion.
More than 400 molecules have been characterized and given official names as a result of the information produced by the 10 Human Leukocyte Differentiation Antigens Workshops over the past 30 years. Leukocyte populations, subsets, and differentiation stages can all be identified and isolated using CD molecules, which are frequently used as cell markers. mAbs directed against these molecules have proven to be crucial in biotechnology, biomedical research, and diagnosis. They have recently been acknowledged as crucial tools for the treatment of a number of cancers and autoimmune disorders.