Anti-CD68

CD68 is a type I transmembrane glycoprotein that is highly expressed by human monocytes and tissue macrophages. It belongs to the lysosomal/endosomal-associated membrane glycoprotein (LAMP) family and primarily localizes to lysosomes and endosomes with a smaller fraction circulating to the cell surface. CD68 is also a member of the scavenger receptor family. It may play a role in phagocytic activities of tissue macrophages. Protein function: Could play a role in phagocytic activities of tissue macrophages, both in intracellular lysosomal metabolism and extracellular cell-cell and cell-pathogen interactions. Binds to tissue- and organ-specific lectins or selectins, allowing homing of macrophage subsets to particular sites. Rapid recirculation of CD68 from endosomes and lysosomes to the plasma membrane may allow macrophages to crawl over selectin-bearing substrates or other cells. [The UniProt Consortium]