The Tetraspanin Protein CD37 Regulates IgA Responses and Anti-Fungal Immunity
2009

CD37 Protein and Its Role in IgA Responses and Fungal Immunity

Sample size: 9 publication 10 minutes Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): Annemiek B. van Spriel, Mariam Sofi, Kate H. Gartlan, Alie van der Schaaf, Ineke Verschueren, Ruurd Torensma, Reinier A. P. Raymakers, Bruce E. Loveland, Mihai G. Netea, Gosse J. Adema, Mark D. Wright, Carl G. Figdor

Primary Institution: University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands

Hypothesis

The tetraspanin protein CD37 inhibits IgA immune responses and regulates anti-fungal immunity.

Conclusion

CD37 inhibits IgA responses and enhances protection against fungal infections.

Supporting Evidence

  • CD37-deficient mice showed a 15-fold increase in serum IgA levels.
  • Neutralizing IL-6 reversed the increased IgA response in CD37-deficient mice.
  • CD37-deficient mice were better protected from Candida albicans infection than wild-type mice.

Takeaway

CD37 is a protein that helps control how much IgA, an important antibody, is made. When this protein is missing, the body makes a lot more IgA and can fight off fungal infections better.

Methodology

The study involved experiments with CD37-deficient mice to assess IgA production and immune responses to Candida albicans.

Participant Demographics

Mice used in the study were CD37-deficient and wild-type strains.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.0002

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.ppat.1000338

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