Lymphocyte activation antigen CD30 (CD30)

CD30 (Lymphocyte activation antigen CD30, TNFRSF8) is a 120 kDa transmembrane glycoprotein belonging to the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily. It is expressed mostly on activated lymphocytes (not resting ones), and is a diagnostic and therapeutic marker in multiple malignant lymphomas—especially Hodgkin and anaplastic large cell lymphomas. CD30 mediates its effects via interaction with its ligand (CD30L, also called CD153, TNFSF8), activating key pathways such as NF-κB, MAPK, and JAK/STAT, which drive cell survival, proliferation, and immune regulation. Drugs like brentuximab vedotin exploit CD30's restricted tumor expression for targeted therapy. Normal tissue expression is limited, but is present in some activated lymphocytes and non-lymphoid cells (e.g., uterine decidual cells). CD30 is also involved in disease progression in viral infections (e.g., HIV, EBV, HTLV-1), immune modulation, and is detectable as a soluble protein fragment in plasma. Safety concerns focus on off-target effects and immunosuppression, but its restricted expression profile offers a favorable target in selected cancers.

Other names

Tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 8 (TNFRSF8)Ki-1 antigenCD30 receptor

Antibody-drug conjugate binds CD30+, internalized and releases cytotoxic agent; Direct apoptosis induction in CD30+ cells; Inhibition of tumor growth by targeting CD30-expressing malignant cells.