CD8Aencoded

CD8Aencoded refers to the gene that provides instructions for making the CD8 alpha chain. This protein is a crucial component of the CD8 glycoprotein, a cell surface receptor found on certain types of immune cells, primarily cytotoxic T lymphocytes and some natural killer cells. The CD8 glycoprotein is essential for the immune system's ability to recognize and respond to foreign invaders like viruses and bacteria, as well as abnormal cells such as cancer cells. Specifically, the CD8 alpha chain pairs with another CD8 alpha chain to form a homodimer, or it can pair with the CD8 beta chain to form a heterodimer. This CD8 glycoprotein acts as a co-receptor, working in conjunction with the T cell receptor (TCR) to bind to specific antigens presented by major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC class I) molecules on the surface of target cells. This interaction helps to strengthen the binding between the T cell and the target cell, facilitating the precise identification of infected or damaged cells. Once the target cell is identified, the cytotoxic T lymphocyte can then initiate a cell-killing response. Mutations or alterations in the CD8A gene can potentially impact the development and function of T cells, potentially leading to compromised immune responses.