CD160 molecule (also known as CD160 antigen) (CD160)

CD160 molecule is a 27 kDa glycoprotein member of the immunoglobulin superfamily that functions as an immune checkpoint receptor with dual signaling capabilities. The protein exists in both glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchored and transmembrane isoforms, each initiating distinct signaling pathways through different molecular mechanisms in natural killer cells and T lymphocytes. CD160 is expressed primarily on cytotoxic NK cells (CD56dimCD16+), CD8+ T lymphocytes, and intestinal intraepithelial lymphocytes, where it binds to both classical and nonclassical MHC class I molecules as well as HVEM (herpes virus entry mediator) to regulate immune responses. In the context of viral infection, CD160 triggers NK cell cytotoxic activity and provides costimulatory signals to memory T cells; however, during chronic viral infection, it may progressively inhibit T cell receptor signaling, contributing to T cell exhaustion. CD160 has emerged as a proposed therapeutic target for cancer immunotherapy, being considered a complementary immune checkpoint inhibitor to anti-PD-1 antibodies, and is also being investigated for potential therapeutic applications in pathological angiogenesis resistant to existing antiangiogenic drugs.

Other names

BY55NK1NK28

Binds herpes virus entry mediator (HVEM) with 1:1 stoichiometry, initiating bidirectional signaling. Receptor for classical and nonclassical MHC class I molecules. Signaling via phosphoinositol 3-kinase in activated NK cells. Signaling via LCK and CD247/CD3 zeta chain in activated T cells. Costimulatory signaling to activated/memory T cells (CD8+ T cells). Progressive inhibition of TCR signaling under persistent antigen stimulation, contributing to T cell exhaustion. Down-regulation of CD28 costimulatory signaling on CD4+ T cells.