Invitrogen™ CD41 Polyclonal Antibody

CD41, also known as platelet glycoprotein IIb or ITGA2B, is a protein composed of two subunits: a 120 kDa alpha subunit and a 23 kDa beta subunit. It interacts with CD61 (gpIIIa, integrin beta III) in the presence of calcium to form a functional adhesive protein receptor. Initially thought to be expressed exclusively on platelets and megakaryocytes, CD41 is also found on hematopoietic progenitors in the embryo, fetus, and adult, indicating its role in early stages of hematopoietic differentiation. CD41 plays a crucial role in platelet function and blood coagulation by mediating platelet aggregation. Upon blood vessel damage, CD41 binds to various adhesion molecules, including von Willebrand factor, fibrinogen, fibronectin, and vitronectin, facilitating platelet adhesion and aggregation. This receptor is essential for platelet function, contributing to the binding of several adhesion molecules and playing a significant role in hemostasis. Diseases associated with CD41 dysfunction include Glanzmann Thrombasthenia and Platelet type-16 bleeding disorder, highlighting its importance in normal platelet function and blood coagulation processes.