CD27 Products

CD27 Full Name

CD27 molecule

CD27 Introduction

CD27 (Cluster of Differentiation 27), also classified as TNFRSF7, is a constitutive type I transmembrane glycoprotein belonging to the tumor necrosis factor receptor (TNFR) superfamily. It is predominantly expressed on the surface of naïve and memory T cells, natural killer (NK) cells, and memory B cells. Unlike many other costimulatory receptors that are induced only upon activation, CD27 is unique because it is constitutively expressed on naïve T cells, ready to receive immediate signals. Its specific ligand, CD70 (TNFSF7), is strictly regulated and transiently expressed on activated antigen-presenting cells (APCs), such as dendritic cells, B cells, and macrophages. The interaction between CD27 and CD70 serves as a pivotal costimulatory checkpoint that dictates the magnitude and quality of the adaptive immune response.

Figure 1. CD70-CD27 pathway. (Source: Jacobs J, et al. 2015)

Functionally, the ligation of CD27 by CD70 triggers the recruitment of TNF receptor-associated factor (TRAF) adaptor proteins (specifically TRAF2 and TRAF5) to the cytoplasmic tail of CD27. This assembly activates the canonical and non-canonical NF-κB and JNK signaling pathways, which are essential for promoting T cell survival, driving cellular proliferation, and supporting the differentiation of effector T cells into long-lived memory T cells. In the B cell lineage, CD27 is a classic marker of memory B cells and is critical for the generation of plasma cells and high-affinity antibody production. Following activation, the extracellular domain of CD27 is proteolytically shed from the cell surface by matrix metalloproteinases, releasing a soluble form (sCD27) into the circulation, which acts as a regulatory feedback mechanism and a marker of immune activation.

Pathologically, the dysregulation of the CD27-CD70 axis contributes to various disease states. A genetic deficiency in CD27 results in a specific primary immunodeficiency characterized by persistent symptomatic Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) viremia, hypogammaglobulinemia, and a high risk of developing EBV-driven lymphoproliferative disorders or lymphomas, highlighting its non-redundant role in antiviral immunity. Conversely, aberrant overexpression of CD27 is frequently observed in various hematological malignancies, including Hodgkin lymphoma, T-cell lymphomas, and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). In the era of cancer immunotherapy, CD27 is emerging as a compelling therapeutic target. Unlike checkpoint inhibitors (like anti-PD-1) that release the "brakes" on the immune system, agonistic antibodies targeting CD27 aim to step on the "gas pedal," artificially stimulating the receptor to boost tumor-specific T cell expansion and effector function, often showing synergistic potential when combined with other immunomodulators.

Alternate Names for CD27

CD27
CD27 molecule
T14
S152
Tp55
TNFRSF7
S152. LPFS2
CD27 antigen
CD27L receptor
T cell activation antigen S152
T-cell activation antigen CD27
tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily, member 7

• CD27 Antibodies
• CD27 Hybridomas
• CD27 Antigens

• 1. Jacobs J, et al. CD70: An emerging target in cancer immunotherapy. Pharmacol Ther. 2015 Nov;155:1-10.
  2. Buchan SL, et al. The immunobiology of CD27 and OX40 and their potential as targets for cancer immunotherapy. Blood. 2018 Jan 4;131(1):39-48.