CD44 receptor (CD44)

CD44 receptor is a transmembrane glycoprotein and the primary cell surface receptor for hyaluronic acid (HA), a major extracellular matrix component[1][6][7]. CD44 mediates a variety of cellular processes including adhesion, migration, proliferation, and signaling through HA binding. Alternative splicing and glycosylation generate multiple CD44 isoforms that confer tissue- and context-specific functions, including roles in both physiological processes (wound healing, immune cell trafficking) and pathological conditions (tumor progression, inflammatory diseases)[1][5][6]. CD44-HA binding activates intracellular signaling pathways—such as Rac1, PI3K/Akt, and others—impacting cell survival, motility, and gene expression[4][6]. Abnormal CD44 signaling and overexpression contribute to tumor metastasis, chemoresistance, and chronic inflammation. Numerous therapeutic candidates, particularly monoclonal antibodies, are under investigation to target CD44-HA interactions, aiming to disrupt pathogenic processes in cancer and inflammatory diseases; however, broad tissue expression and involvement in normal homeostasis pose therapeutic challenges[2][6][7].

Other names

CD44 antigenPgp-1Ly-24H-CAMHermes antigenhoming cell adhesion molecule

Blockade of HA-CD44 interaction, Inhibition of signal transduction pathways (e.g., MAPK, PI3K/AKT, NF-κB), Antibody-mediated receptor internalization or apoptosis, Disruption of leukocyte adhesion/extravasation