Glossary
The state-of-the-art glossary for Waldenström’s macroglobulinemia.
CD20
CD20 in the glossary for Waldenström's macroglobulinemia
An antigen expressed on the surface of B-cells
CD20 (also known as B-lymphocyte antigen CD20) is expressed on the surface of all B-cells beginning at the pro-B phase (CD45R+, CD117+) and progressively increases in concentration until maturity. In humans CD20 is encoded by the MS4A1 gene. The protein functions to enable optimal B-cell immune response, specifically against T-independent antigens. CD20 is the target of several monoclonal antibodies (such as rituximab, obinutuzumab, and ibritumomab) which are active agents in the treatment of all B-cell lymphomas, leukemias, and B cell-mediated autoimmune diseases.
Glossary overview