Butyrophilin-like protein 8 (BTNL8)

Butyrophilin-like protein 8 (BTNL8) is a single-pass type I membrane protein and member of the immunoglobulin superfamily, specifically the butyrophilin/MOG family. It features immunoglobulin-like domains (IgV and B30.2/SPRY) and is closely related to the B7 family of immune co-signaling molecules. Expressed on various immune cells, including T lymphocytes and myeloid cells, BTNL8 acts as a co-stimulatory molecule that augments T cell activation and cytokine production, thereby playing a central role in regulation and priming of primary immune responses. While its exact in vivo function is still under investigation, evidence suggests its importance in modulating immune homeostasis and potential roles in tissue protection and inflammatory diseases. No approved drugs or well-characterized clinical biomarkers currently target BTNL8, but its immunomodulatory activities make it a potential, though as-yet unexploited, target in immune-related therapies[2][3][4][5][6][7].

Other names

B7-H5 costimulatory moleculeUNQ702/PRO1347FLJ21458BTN9.2butyrophilin-like 8

Costimulation of T lymphocyte activation (acts on T cells, promotes cytokine secretion, enhances primary immune response)[2][3][7]