CD14 molecule (CD14)

CD14 molecule is a membrane-anchored or soluble glycoprotein primarily expressed on the surface of monocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells. It serves as a high-affinity pattern recognition receptor for bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and other pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), participating as a co-receptor with TLR4 and MD-2 to amplify innate immune responses[1][3][4]. CD14 is involved in the detection and clearance of microbes, regulation of inflammatory signaling (via NF-κB and MAPK pathways), and phagocytosis of apoptotic cells. It exists in two forms: a membrane-bound form (mCD14) and a soluble form (sCD14), both with functional roles in inflammation and immune modulation[1][4]. Aberrant or excessive activation of CD14-mediated pathways is implicated in the pathology of sepsis, chronic inflammation, cardiovascular disease, and other conditions. Targeting CD14 with monoclonal antibodies (e.g., atibuclimab) is under clinical investigation for modulating excessive inflammatory responses, such as in sepsis and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)[4]. Elevated sCD14 levels are used as a biomarker for inflammation and disease prognosis in several conditions[1].

Other names

CD14 antigenMY23 antigenlipopolysaccharide (LPS) receptormyeloid cell-specific leucine-rich glycoprotein

Blocking ligand (e.g., LPS) binding to CD14 Inhibition of downstream TLR4/NF-κB-mediated pro-inflammatory signaling Modulation of cytokine release and immune cell activation