Decay accelerating factor (CD55)

791Tgp72 was isolated as a tumor-associated antigen and later identified as the complement regulatory protein, CD55 (Decay accelerating factor). CD55 protects cells from complement-mediated damage and plays a critical role in immune regulation and signal transduction. It is overexpressed in several cancers and is a promising target for cancer immunotherapy, as blocking its function can enhance tumor cell sensitivity to immune-mediated lysis. Therapeutic monoclonal antibodies targeting CD55 are being investigated and can work synergistically with chemotherapeutics. Its biological role both as a protector from complement and a mediator of immune signaling places CD55 at the crossroads of innate and adaptive immune responses.

Other names

CD55DAF791Tgp72 antigen

Blocking CD55 increases cellular susceptibility to complement-mediated lysis and can enhance immune attack on tumors. Anti-CD55 antibodies may induce inflammatory responses and promote cancer cell death.