CD59 antigen

CD59 antigen (also called 1F-5Ag, H19, HRF20, MACIF, MIRL, P-18 or protectin) inhibits formation of membrane attack complex (MAC), thus protecting cells from complement-mediated lysis. It has a signaling role, as a GPI anchored molecule, in T cell activation and appears to have some role in cell adhesion through CD2 (controversial). CD59 associates with C9, inhibiting incorporation into C5b-8 preventing terminal steps in polymerization of the (MAC) in plasma membranes. Genetic defects in GPI-anchor attachment that cause a reduction or loss of both CD59 and CD55 on erythrocytes produce the symptoms of the disease paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH).