CD68 molecule (CD68)

CD68 molecule (commonly abbreviated as CD68) is a heavily glycosylated type I transmembrane glycoprotein of 110 kD, encoded by the CD68 gene on chromosome 17[1][5]. It is primarily localized to lysosomes and endosomes, with a portion present on the plasma membrane[1][4]. CD68 is highly expressed in the monocyte-macrophage lineage, including tissue macrophages (such as Kupffer cells and microglia), monocytes, osteoclasts, and some dendritic cells[1][4]. It belongs to both the lysosome-associated membrane glycoprotein (LAMP) family and the scavenger receptor family, participating mainly in phagocytosis, the clearance of cellular debris, and immune surveillance[1][3][4][5]. CD68 is extensively used as a pan-macrophage marker in research and diagnostics—for example, to assess macrophage infiltration in tumors and sites of inflammation[3][4]. It has roles in inflammation (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn disease) and cancer (as a marker for pro-tumoral and immunoregulatory myeloid cells)[3]. It is not generally considered a direct therapeutic target, and no drugs specifically target CD68[4][5]. CD68 antibodies are widely used for immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry, and cytological applications in clinical and research settings[4].

Other names

MacrosialinSCARD1GP110LAMP4Scavenger receptor class D member 1CD68 antigenMacrophage antigen CD68