Cell surface proteins and membranes of recipient tissues

Cell surface proteins and membranes of recipient tissues refers to the complex biological interface comprising the lipid bilayer and the diverse array of proteins, glycoproteins, and glycolipids expressed on the exterior of cells within a target organ or tissue. This interface serves as the critical site for the initial interaction, binding, and internalization of various therapeutic modalities, including monoclonal antibodies, viral vectors, and lipid nanoparticles (PMID: 28811340). Biologically, these components are essential for maintaining cellular homeostasis, facilitating signal transduction, and mediating cell-cell recognition and adhesion (PMID: 31435460). In pathological contexts, such as viral infections or malignancy, these surfaces are often modified to facilitate pathogen entry or to evade host immune detection (PMID: 32296183). Because this term encompasses thousands of distinct molecular entities across diverse cell types, it is classified as a broad physiological compartment or site of action rather than a specific, individual therapeutic target. Consequently, drug discovery efforts typically focus on isolating specific receptors or transporters within this membrane rather than targeting the membrane as a collective unit.

Other names

Recipient cell surfaceHost cell plasma membraneTarget tissue interfaceCellular boundary

Interaction with the recipient cell surface via non-specific binding, ligand-receptor recognition, or membrane fusion to facilitate the delivery of therapeutic cargo or the initiation of intracellular signaling cascades.