CD21

The cluster of differentiation (CD) system is commonly used as cell markers in Immunophenotyping. There are more than 320 CD unique clusters and subclusters have been identified. Some of the CD molecules serve as receptors or ligands important to the cell through initiating a signal cascade which then alters the behavior of the cell. CD21, also known as Complement component (3d / Epstein Barr virus) receptor 2 and CR2, is a member of the CD system and is a protein involved in complement system. CD21 is present on all mature B-cells and some T-cells and follicular dendritic cells. CD21 on mature B-cells form a complex called the B cell receptor complex with two other membrane proteins, CD19 and CD81. CD21 has a function in the complement system through serving as the cellular receptor specific for ligands such as C3 and C4 which can be attached to foreign macromolecules in order to remove or uptake them. This results in B-cells having enhanced response to the antigen.