Transferrin receptor protein 1 (TfR1)

Transferrin receptor protein 1 (TfR1), also known as CD71, is a type II transmembrane glycoprotein that functions as a homodimer to mediate cellular iron uptake. It binds diferric transferrin and internalizes it through clathrin-mediated endocytosis. TfR1 is essential for supplying iron to cells, particularly rapidly dividing cells like erythroid precursors. Its expression is tightly controlled by intracellular iron levels. TfR1 is highly upregulated on rapidly proliferating cells, including many cancer types, making it a target for cancer therapy. Antibodies targeting TfR1 can be used as direct anti-cancer agents or as drug delivery vehicles.

Other names

CD71

Monoclonal antibodies against TfR1/CD71 block its function or deliver cytotoxic agents into cancer cells. Antibodies may act directly (by inhibiting receptor function or triggering immune effector mechanisms like ADCC/CDC) or indirectly as delivery vehicles for drugs/toxins/nucleic acids into tumor cells due to efficient internalization properties.