CD4

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CD4

CD4 (pronounced: "C-D-four") is a glycoprotein found on the surface of immune cells such as T helper cells, monocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells.

Etymology

The term "CD4" stands for "Cluster of Differentiation 4". It is part of a naming convention for immune cells and their markers, known as the Cluster of Differentiation.

Function

CD4 plays a crucial role in the immune system. It enables T helper cells to recognize antigens presented by APCs and initiate an immune response. CD4 is also the primary receptor used by HIV to enter and infect host cells.

CD4 Count

A CD4 count is a test that measures the number of T helper cells in a sample of blood. This count is used in the diagnosis and monitoring of diseases such as HIV and AIDS. A normal CD4 count ranges from 500 to 1,500 cells per cubic millimeter of blood. A CD4 count below 200 is one of the criteria for diagnosing AIDS.

Related Terms

  • CD4+ T Cells: A type of T cell that expresses CD4 on its surface and plays a key role in the immune response.
  • CD4+ T Cell Count: A measure of the number of CD4+ T cells in a sample of blood.
  • CD4+ T Cell Depletion: A decrease in the number of CD4+ T cells, often seen in HIV infection.
  • CD4+ T Cell Activation: The process by which CD4+ T cells are stimulated to respond to an antigen.

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