Dedicator of cytokinesis protein 8 (DOCK8)

Dedicator of cytokinesis protein 8 (DOCK8) is a large (~190 kDa) protein encoded by the DOCK8 gene and belongs to the DOCK-C subfamily of guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs)[1][2]. It functions primarily as a GEF for CDC42, a small Rho GTPase, and is critical for the regulation of actin cytoskeleton dynamics, immune cell migration, and immune synapse formation[1][2][7]. DOCK8 is highly expressed in hematopoietic cells, including T cells, B cells, and natural killer cells, where it enables cell structure integrity, migration, and survival, thereby facilitating normal immune surveillance and function[3][4][5]. Mutations or loss of DOCK8 lead to DOCK8 immunodeficiency syndrome (autosomal recessive hyper-IgE syndrome), marked by recurring severe infections, atopy, increased IgE levels, asthma, eczema, autoimmunity, and a predisposition to malignancies[3][7]. It is not a receptor, enzyme, or transporter, but is considered a clinically important target due to its central signaling role in immune function and the consequences of its deficiency[7]. No specific pharmacological inhibitors or drugs are currently listed as directly interacting with DOCK8.

Other names

FLJ00026FLJ00152ZIR8FLJ00346HEL-205HIES2MRD21200017A24Rikepididymis luminal protein 205