BCMA Antibodies

Gene Name: BCMA (B-cell maturation antigen)

Function: BCMA, also known as TNFRSF17 (Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor Superfamily Member 17), is a member of the tumor necrosis factor receptor (TNFR) superfamily. BCMA is primarily expressed on the surface of mature B cells, plasma cells, and some myeloma cells. It plays a role in the survival and differentiation of B cells.

Immune Regulation: BCMA is involved in regulating B cell survival and differentiation. It interacts with ligands such as BAFF (B-cell activating factor) and APRIL (a proliferation-inducing ligand) to promote B cell proliferation and survival.

Apoptosis: While BCMA primarily promotes B cell survival, it can also induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in certain circumstances. In normal B cells, BCMA signaling is involved in maintaining plasma cell survival. However, dysregulation of BCMA signaling can lead to excessive B cell activation and contribute to autoimmune diseases or B cell malignancies.

Research Implications: Understanding the functions of BCMA is important for elucidating the mechanisms underlying B cell biology, particularly in the context of plasma cell differentiation and survival. Research on BCMA is relevant to the development of therapies targeting B cell-related diseases, including multiple myeloma and autoimmune disorders.

Clinical Relevance: BCMA has emerged as a promising target for immunotherapy in multiple myeloma. Antibody-based therapies targeting BCMA, such as monoclonal antibodies and CAR-T cell therapies, have shown promising results in clinical trials for relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma. These therapies aim to specifically target BCMA-expressing myeloma cells while sparing normal tissues.