What type of cell marker is CD81?

Under normal circumstances, CD81 serves as a marker for beige adipocyte precursor cells. The specific details are as follows:

CD81 is typically a novel marker for a subset of beige adipocyte precursor cells and also an important B-cell surface marker involved in B-cell recognition, adhesion, and activation. CD81 is generally expressed as a stress-responsive protein in adipocytes upon cold exposure and can participate in the energy expenditure process of fat cells. CD81 plays a significant role in the human body; its deficiency may lead to obesity, insulin resistance, and adipose tissue inflammation. Therefore, preventive measures are recommended to avoid related adverse symptoms. CD81 can act as a key sensor for external stimuli, regulating the proliferation of beige adipocyte precursor cells and maintaining whole-body energy homeostasis.

The expression of CD81 on thymic epithelial cells plays an important role in the maturation of thymocytes. Although CD81 is not essential for the development of T and B cells, it significantly influences the expression of CD19 on B cells and the production of antibodies. Hence, CD81 warrants close attention.