CD3 zeta chain

The CD3 zeta chain (CD247) is a crucial transmembrane subunit of the T-cell receptor (TCR)-CD3 complex. It plays a critical role in adaptive immune responses by transmitting signals from antigen recognition to intracellular signaling pathways via its immunoreceptor tyrosine-based activation motifs (ITAMs). The ζζ homodimer provides six ITAMs to the complex, making it central to downstream signaling. Low expression or absence impairs immune responses. It interacts with JAK3, protein unc119 homolog, and other proteins involved in immunological synapse formation. Microbial proteins such as HIV Nef can modulate these interactions, affecting immune function. It is expressed predominantly in lymphoid tissues and peripheral blood mononuclear cells.

Other names

T-cell surface glycoprotein CD3 zeta chainT-cell receptor T3 zeta chainCD247TCR-T3 zeta chainCluster of Differentiation 247

Not applicable (subunit of a receptor complex; direct targeting is rare)