Explore CD20 CD3

Simultaneous binding of cluster of differentiation (CD)20 on B cells and CD3 on T cells can result in T-cell activation and B-cell killing

CD20: a B-cell surface antigen

CD20 is a transmembrane protein and B-cell surface marker that is involved in the development and differentiation of B cells.¹ CD20 is expressed in a majority of B-cell malignancies, including chronic lymphocytic leukemia, diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, follicular lymphoma, and mantle cell lymphoma.^1,2

CD3: a T-cell activator

CD3 is a multimeric protein composed of 4 subunits (γ, δ, ε, ζ), which are part of the T-cell receptor (TCR) complex on the surface of T cells. Engagement of CD3 induces downstream signaling events that result in T-cell activation.³

Simultaneously binding CD20 and CD3

Binding CD20 on B cells and CD3 on T cells can engage T cells and redirect their activity against B cells. T-cell activation—a result of the CD20-CD3 interaction—promotes the proliferation/expansion of pre-existing T cells, which may further contribute to the depletion of B cells.^4-5