T cell surface glycoprotein CD7 (CD7)

T cell surface glycoprotein CD7 is a single-domain transmembrane protein of the immunoglobulin superfamily and a member of the CD antigen family, predominantly expressed on thymocytes, mature T cells, and natural killer (NK) cells. It plays a critical role in early lymphoid lineage commitment, T-cell activation (as a costimulatory molecule), and immune cell interactions, particularly binding to ligands such as K12/SECTM1 and galectin-1. CD7 is also highly expressed in various hematological malignancies such as T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia and acts as a key marker and potential therapeutic target in these contexts. Its physiological functions under normal conditions remain partly unresolved, but in tumor settings, CD7 supports T-cell infiltration, adhesion, and migration, likely through modulation of integrin activity. CD7-targeted therapies are being explored, with considerations for balancing anti-tumor efficacy against possible immunosuppression due to depletion of normal T and NK cells.

Other names

GP40T cell antigen CD7

Direct targeting or depletion of CD7-expressing cells by monoclonal antibodies; Antibody-drug conjugate-mediated cytotoxicity of malignant CD7+ cells; Costimulatory modulation of T/NK function (primarily through ligand engagement)