CD56, also known as neural cell adhesion molecule 1 (NCAM1), is a cell surface glycoprotein encoded by the NCAM1 gene on chromosome 11q23.1. It exists in multiple isoforms generated by alternative splicing, with the predominant isoform consisting of approximately 858 amino acids. The molecular weight of CD56 varies depending on its glycosylation state and isoform composition. CD56 undergoes various post-translational modifications, including phosphorylation, glycosylation, and the formation of disulfide bonds, which contribute to its structural diversity and functions. As a transmembrane protein, CD56 serves as a homophilic adhesion molecule, mediating cell–cell interactions between neurons and between neurons and glial cells in the nervous system. Additionally, CD56 modulates cell signaling pathways, including those regulating cell growth, differentiation, and survival, thereby influencing various physiological processes in the nervous system.
CD56 is expressed in various tissues and cell types, with particularly high levels in the central nervous system, including neurons, glial cells, and neural progenitor cells. Additionally, CD56 expression has been detected in non-neuronal tissues, including skeletal muscle, natural killer cells, and certain tumors. The expression of CD56 is developmentally regulated, with dynamic changes observed during neurodevelopment and synaptic remodeling. Dysregulated expression of CD56 has been implicated in various cancers, neurological disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease, schizophrenia, and autism spectrum disorders. In these conditions, alterations in CD56 expression levels or isoform composition may disrupt cell adhesion, synaptic connectivity, and neuronal signaling, contributing to disease pathogenesis and progression.
In the realm of cancer and diseases, CD56 holds diagnostic and prognostic significance in specific conditions. For instance, in neuroblastoma, cancer originating from immature nerve cells, heightened CD56 expression is often associated with aggressive tumor behavior and poorer prognosis. Similarly, in small cell lung carcinoma (SCLC), CD56 serves as a diagnostic aid, particularly in distinguishing it from other lung cancer types. In multiple myeloma (MM), aberrant CD56 expression on plasma cells can carry prognostic implications, potentially indicating adverse outcomes. Additionally, CD56 expression in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) may signal the presence of myeloid sarcoma or extramedullary leukemia, influencing treatment strategies and patient prognosis. Furthermore, in peripheral T-cell lymphoma (PTCL), such as natural killer/T-cell lymphoma subtypes, CD56 expression may guide treatment decisions and provide insights into disease prognosis. In summary, CD56 expression stands as a valuable diagnostic marker across various cancers and diseases, with its levels often correlating with prognostic outcomes.
NeoBiotechnologies offers a variety of antibodies against CD56 that have been validated for flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, and Western blotting, as well as HuProt-validated options. Additionally, we hold exclusive rights to CD56 antibodies available for licensing or collaboration [https://www.neobiotechnologies.com/gene-name/ncam1/].
Synonyms
Neural cell adhesion molecule 1, NCAM, Leu-19, NKH1, MSK39, NCAM120, NCAM140, NCAM180, Neural Cell Adhesion Molecule
Research Areas
Cardiovascular, Developmental Biology, Immunology, Neuroscience, Cytokine Signaling, Hematopoietic Stem Cells, Mesenchymal Stem Cell Differentiation, Neural Stem Cells, Signal Transduction, Stem Cell Differentiation
