CD Molecules: The Immune Cell Identity Map and Advanced Tools for Immunophenotyping
01 Apr 2026
by AntBio
1. Concept
Cluster of Differentiation (CD) molecules are cell‑surface antigens and glycoproteins that serve as molecular markers for immune cell lineage, development stage, activation status, and functional phenotype. They are widely expressed on lymphocytes, myeloid cells, dendritic cells, platelets, and other hematopoietic and immune cell types. Each CD molecule is recognized by specific antibodies and enables precise identification, classification, and isolation of distinct immune cell subsets.
2. Research Frontier
Modern immunology has entered the era of high‑dimensional immunophenotyping, driven by single‑cell sequencing, multicolor flow cytometry, imaging mass cytometry, and spatial transcriptomics. Researchers are now able to resolve the immune cell landscape at an unprecedented resolution, including rare subsets, transitional states, and tissue‑resident populations.
Key frontiers include:
- Immune cell subset identification and subset‑specific functional analysis
- Immune checkpoint expression and T‑cell exhaustion profiling
- Immune cell development and differentiation trajectories
- Tumor immune microenvironment composition and spatial distribution
- Minimal residual disease monitoring in hematologic oncology
3. Research Significance
Comprehensive characterization of CD molecule expression profiles is the foundation of modern immunology, enabling:
- Precise immune cell typing and functional annotation
- Discovery of novel immune subsets and regulatory mechanisms
- Development of targeted immunotherapies and companion diagnostics
- Accurate diagnosis and classification of hematologic malignancies
- Evaluation of therapeutic efficacy and disease monitoring
4. Related Mechanisms and Research Methods
4.1 Immune Cell Identification Mechanisms
CD molecules mediate cell adhesion, migration, signaling transduction, activation, and immune regulation. Their expression is dynamically regulated during cell development, activation, and differentiation.
4.2 Core Research Methods
- Flow cytometry: High‑throughput immunophenotyping using fluoroch‑conjugated CD antibodies
- Immunohistochemistry / Immunofluorescence: Spatial localization of CD molecules in tissues
- Single‑cell RNA sequencing: Transcriptional profiling of CD molecule expression
- Cell isolation and functional assays: Sorting pure subsets using CD‑specific antibodies
- Immune checkpoint detection: Profiling inhibitory and costimulatory receptor expression
5. Product Applications Supported by ANT BIO PTE. LTD.
5.1 Lymphocyte Typing
- T cell: CD3, CD4, CD8, CD45RA, CD45RO, CCR7
- B cell: CD19, CD20, CD27, CD38
- NK cell: CD16, CD56, CD94
5.2 Myeloid Cell Typing
- Monocytes / Macrophages: CD14, CD16, CD68, CD163, CD206
- Dendritic cells: CD11c, CD1c, CD141, CD123
- Granulocytes: CD66b, CD15, CD11b
5.3 Immune Checkpoint Research
- Inhibitory receptors: PD‑1, CTLA‑4, TIM‑3, LAG‑3, TIGIT
- Costimulatory molecules: CD28, ICOS, CD40, 4‑1BB, OX40
5.4 Hematologic Tumor Diagnosis
- B‑cell lymphoma panel: CD19, CD20, CD10, CD5, CD23
- T‑cell lymphoma panel: CD3, CD4, CD8, CD7, CD30
- Acute myeloid leukemia panel: CD13, CD33, CD34, CD117
6. Brand Mission of ANT BIO PTE. LTD.
ANT BIO PTE. LTD. is a leading supplier of life science reagents dedicated to empowering breakthrough discoveries in immunology, oncology, and translational medicine.
We provide high‑quality antibodies, recombinant proteins, assay kits, and universal reagents to support immunophenotyping, mechanism research, drug development, and clinical translation.
Our three specialized sub‑brands form a complete solution system:
- Absin: Universal reagents, buffers, and assay kits
- Starter: Highly validated antibodies for flow cytometry, IHC, and IF
- UA: High‑purity recombinant proteins for immunization, functional assays, and standard controls
7. Related Product Portfolio
7.1 Starter (Antibody Products)
- Fluoroch‑conjugated CD antibodies for flow cytometry
- Unconjugated monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies for IHC / IF
- Immune checkpoint antibodies for research and drug discovery
- Hematologic tumor immunophenotyping antibody panels
7.2 UA (Recombinant Protein Products)
- Recombinant CD molecules and immune checkpoint proteins
- Standard proteins for assay development and validation
- Carrier proteins and control antigens
7.3 Absin (General Reagents & Kits)
- Flow cytometry staining buffers and fixation kits
- IHC / IF detection kits and universal reagents
- Cell isolation and functional assay buffers
Brand Promotion Copy
ANT BIO PTE. LTD. – Empowering Scientific Breakthroughs
At ANTBIO, we are committed to advancing life science research through high-quality, reliable reagents and comprehensive solutions. Our specialized sub-brands (Absin, Starter, UA) cover a full spectrum of research needs, from general reagents and kits to antibodies and recombinant proteins. With a focus on innovation, quality, and customer-centricity, we strive to be your trusted partner in unlocking scientific mysteries and driving medical progress. Explore our product portfolio today and elevate your research to new heights.
