CKLF-like MARVEL transmembrane domain containing 6 (CMTM6)

CMTM6 is a type 3 transmembrane protein of the CKLF-like MARVEL transmembrane domain-containing family, expressed across multiple tissue types and highly relevant in cancer biology. Its principal function is to stabilize PD-L1 on the plasma membrane of tumor cells, thus promoting tumor immune evasion by protecting PD-L1 from lysosomal degradation and ubiquitination, and maintaining PD-L1-mediated suppression of T-cell activity. CMTM6 interacts with other molecules (e.g., PD-L1, p21, CD58), impacting cell cycle arrest and tumor progression in a disease- and context-specific fashion. Cytoplasmic, membrane-bound, and exosomal forms of CMTM6 exist; exosomal CMTM6 has potential as a biomarker. Its dysregulation has been implicated in cancer, autoimmune, and cardiovascular diseases, qualifying CMTM6 as a therapeutic target and biomarker in oncology and potentially other indications.

Other names

CMTM6CKLFSF6PRO2219ayoubegourari

CMTM6 stabilizes PD-L1 on the tumor cell membrane, reducing its lysosomal degradation and promoting immune escape. Drugs that block PD-1/PD-L1 interaction can be potentiated by targeting CMTM6 or its interaction with PD-L1