The CD88 antibody targets the CD88 antigen, also known as the C5a receptor (C5aR1), a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) that binds complement component C5a, a potent inflammatory mediator. Discovered in the late 1980s, C5aR1 plays a central role in innate immunity by mediating pro-inflammatory responses, including chemotaxis, cytokine release, and leukocyte activation. Dysregulation of C5a-C5aR1 signaling is implicated in inflammatory diseases (e.g., sepsis, rheumatoid arthritis), autoimmune disorders, and cancer. CD88 antibodies, either monoclonal or polyclonal, are tools for detecting receptor expression in research or blocking C5aR1 activation in therapeutic contexts.
Therapeutic anti-CD88 antibodies aim to inhibit excessive inflammation or disrupt tumor microenvironments where C5aR1 promotes immune evasion. Preclinical studies show promise in reducing inflammation in sepsis models and enhancing anti-tumor immunity. However, challenges remain, such as balancing immune suppression with infection risks and optimizing antibody specificity. CD88 antibodies also serve as diagnostic markers, aiding in profiling immune cell populations in diseases. Recent advances include humanized antibodies and bispecific designs to improve clinical efficacy. Overall, CD88 antibodies represent a dual-purpose tool for both understanding C5aR1 biology and developing targeted therapies against inflammation and cancer.