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Target intelligence / Profile preview
CD44 (Cluster of Differentiation 44) (CD44)
- Target
- CD44
- Molecular classification
- Receptor, Cell adhesion molecule, Hyaluronan receptor, Immunoglobulin superfamily (not classical Ig, but structurally related)
01
Overview
CD44 is a transmembrane glycoprotein and the principal cell surface receptor for hyaluronic acid. It mediates cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions, participates in cell migration, proliferation, and immune responses, and is upregulated in various cancers and inflammatory diseases. CD44-bound HA activates intracellular signaling pathways, including the small GTPases (e.g., Rac1), regulating cytoskeletal dynamics and gene expression[2][3][6]. CD44 has multiple isoforms generated by alternative splicing, contributing to its context-dependent functions in both physiological processes (wound healing, leukocyte homing) and pathological states (tumor metastasis, chronic inflammation)[2][5][6]. Targeting CD44-HA interactions is under investigation for cancer therapy, drug delivery, and modulation of immune responses.
- Other names
- CD44Phagocytic glycoprotein-1 (Pgp-1)H-CAMHermes antigenLymphocyte homing receptorECM-IIIEpican
02
Mechanism of action
Inhibition of HA binding Blocking cell adhesion and migration Immune modulation (by targeting lymphocyte function) Antibody-drug conjugates targeting CD44+ cells in tumors
03
Biological functions
Cell adhesionSignal transductionCell migrationLymphocyte homingCell proliferationInflammationMetastasis
04
Disease associations
Cancer (esp. metastasis and tumor progression)InflammationAutoimmunityFibrosisInfection
05
Safety considerations
ImmunosuppressionOff-target effects due to widespread CD44 expression (hematopoietic, epithelial, mesenchymal cells)Cytokine release syndrome (potential with antibody-based drugs)
06
Interacting drugs
Bivatuzumab (anti-CD44 antibody, developed for cancer; development discontinued)
2 more in the full profile.
07
Biomarkers
CD44 expression (for cancer stem cell phenotype)Soluble CD44 (in serum as indicator of tumor burden/metastasis)
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