Background
Cytotoxic T-lymphocyte protein 4, also known as CTLA4 and CD152, is a single-pass type I membrane protein and a member of the immunoglobulin superfamily. It is the second member of the CD28 receptor family. The ligands or counterreceptors for these two proteins are the B7 family members, CD80 (B7-1) and CD86 (B7-2). CTLA4 transmits an inhibitory signal to T cells, whereas CD28 transmits a stimulatory signal. Intracellular CTLA4 is also found in regulatory T cells and may play an important role in their functions. CD152 or cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen-4 (CTLA-4) is an essential receptor involved in the negative regulation of T cell activation. Because of its profound inhibitory role, CD152 has been considered a sound susceptible candidate in autoimmunity and a persuasive target for cancer immunotherapy. In particular, recent evidence suggests that CD152 is also important in the homeostasis and function of a population of suppressive cells, termed regulatory T cells (Treg).
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