Molecular Classification
Immunoglobulin superfamily protein, Co-stimulatory molecule, Cell-surface glycoprotein, Member of the B7 family
Other Names
B7-1 (for CD80), B7-2 (for CD86), B7 family members
Disease Roles
CancerInflammationInfection

CD80 and CD86 Overview

CD80 (B7-1) and CD86 (B7-2) are closely related co-stimulatory molecules belonging to the B7 family of the immunoglobulin superfamily and are expressed on the surface of professional antigen-presenting cells such as dendritic cells, B cells, and macrophages[1][2][6]. Both molecules provide essential co-stimulatory signals required for full T cell activation and survival by binding to the CD28 receptor for activation or to CTLA-4 for inhibition on T cells[3][6]. CD80 and CD86 share about 25% sequence identity but differ in affinity and kinetics: CD80 has higher affinity for both CD28 and CTLA-4 compared to CD86, and both are crucial for modulating immune responses[1][2]. Engagement of these proteins regulates T cell proliferation, apoptosis, and tolerance, making them important therapeutic targets in autoimmunity, transplantation, and cancer immunotherapy[2][3][4][5].

Mechanism of Action

Blockade of CD28:CD80/CD86 interaction to prevent T cell activation (immunosuppression) Enhancement or inhibition of co-stimulatory signals depending on therapeutic strategy Induction of T cell anergy or regulatory T cell activation (via CTLA-4 pathway)

Biological Functions

T cell activation
Immune response modulation
Signal transduction
Co-stimulation and co-inhibition of immune cells
Regulation of cell proliferation and apoptosis in immune cells

Disease Associations

Cancer
Inflammation
Infection
Autoimmune diseases
Transplant rejection

Safety Considerations

  • Excessive blockade may increase risk of infection and malignancy due to immune suppression
  • Risk of cytokine release syndrome or autoimmunity if co-stimulatory pathways are overactivated

Interacting Drugs

Abatacept (CTLA4-Ig fusion protein)
Belatacept (CTLA4-Ig fusion protein)
Ipilimumab (CTLA-4 antagonist; indirectly affects interaction)
Others under clinical investigation targeting costimulation pathways

Associated Biomarkers

Biomarker
Expression levels of CD80 or CD86 on antigen-presenting cells correlate with immune activation and response to immunotherapies in certain contexts
Changes in CD80/CD86 used to monitor immune status in transplant and autoimmune settings