Red blood cell surface protein (RBC surface protein)

Red blood cell surface proteins, also referred to as erythrocyte membrane proteins, represent a heterogeneous group of molecules including transporters, receptors, and glycoproteins that are vital for the structural integrity and physiological roles of erythrocytes [StatPearls, 2023]. Major components such as Band 3 (Anion exchange protein 1) and glycophorins facilitate essential processes like carbon dioxide transport and the maintenance of the cell's biconcave shape [UniProt, P02730]. These proteins also define blood group systems (e.g., ABO and Rh), which are critical in transfusion medicine and the prevention of hemolytic disease [NCBI, 2022]. In therapeutic contexts, specific surface proteins like CD47 are targeted by monoclonal antibodies such as magrolimab to disrupt 'don't eat me' signaling in cancer [PubMed, 32103351]. Additionally, certain surface proteins serve as entry points for pathogens, such as the Duffy antigen used by Plasmodium vivax, making them targets for anti-malarial interventions [PubMed, 11740501].

Other names

Erythrocyte membrane proteinRBC surface antigenErythrocyte surface antigen

Antigen neutralization, CD47-SIRPα axis blockade, inhibition of parasitic attachment, and complement inhibition [PubMed, 32103351; FDA, 2021].