CD38

CD38 (is_associated_with::cluster of differentiation 38), also known as cyclic ADP ribose hydrolase is a is_associated_with::glycoprotein found on the surface of many immune cells (is_associated_with::white blood cells), including is_associated_with::CD4+, is_associated_with::CD8+, is_associated_with::B lymphocytes and is_associated_with::natural killer cells. CD38 also functions in is_associated_with::cell adhesion, is_associated_with::signal transduction and is_associated_with::calcium signaling.

In humans, the CD38 protein is encoded by the CD38 is_associated_with::gene which located on chromosome 4.

Function
CD38 is a multifunctional ectoenzyme that catalyzes the synthesis and hydrolysis of is_associated_with::cyclic ADP-ribose (cADPR) from NAD+ to ADP-ribose. These reaction products are essential for the regulation of intracellular Ca2+.

Clinical significance
The loss of CD38 function is associated with impaired immune responses, metabolic disturbances, and behavioral modifications including social amnesia possibly related to autism.

The CD38 protein is a marker of cell activation. It has been connected to is_associated_with::HIV infection, is_associated_with::leukemias, is_associated_with::myelomas, solid tumors, is_associated_with::type II diabetes mellitus and bone metabolism, as well as some genetically determined conditions.

CD38 produces an enzyme which regulates the release of oxytocin within the central nervous system.

Application
CD38 has been used as a prognostic marker in is_associated_with::leukemia.