CD24 molecule (CD24)

CD24 molecule is a highly glycosylated, GPI-anchored cell surface protein expressed on various immune (B and T lymphocytes, granulocytes, monocytes) and nonimmune cells (epithelial, neural, muscle). It modulates cellular adhesion, migration, differentiation, and proliferation, and plays a crucial role in immune regulation—negatively regulating inflammation and inducing apoptosis in some contexts. CD24 interacts with and regulates other adhesion molecules and immune cell surface receptors, impacting processes like homeostatic proliferation and immune checkpoint activity. Importantly, CD24 is associated with tumor progression, metastasis, and cancer stemness; consequently, it is being investigated both as a diagnostic biomarker and as a therapeutic target in cancer and other disease contexts. Clinical development of CD24-targeted therapies, including monoclonal antibodies and fusion proteins, is ongoing, but more evidence is needed regarding efficacy and safety. CD24’s functional complexity, tissue-specific roles, and impact on tumor biology position it as a promising but challenging therapeutic target.

Other names

cluster of differentiation 24heat stable antigen CD24 (HSA)nectadrin

Immune checkpoint modulation; Blockade of cell adhesion; Induction of apoptosis; Modulation of immune cell signaling (e.g., suppression of proliferation, regulation of cytokines)