cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4
Pronunciation: SY-toe-TOX-ik TEE lim-fo-site as-SO-see-ay-ted PRO-teen
Also written as: CTLA-4 — cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4
A protein receptor that acts as an immune checkpoint, downregulating immune responses.
Full Definition
Cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4) is a protein receptor found on T cells that functions as an immune checkpoint by inhibiting T-cell activation and proliferation. In cancer treatment, CTLA-4 inhibitors are used as immunotherapy drugs to enhance the immune system's ability to attack cancer cells. The protein plays a crucial role in maintaining immune homeostasis by preventing excessive immune responses. CTLA-4 blockade has shown significant clinical efficacy in treating various cancers, particularly melanoma.
Usage
Usage note: Always spell out on first use, then use CTLA-4. Hyphenate the full form.
In Context
- "The patient was enrolled in a clinical trial testing a CTLA-4 inhibitor for advanced melanoma." — Clinical trial protocol
- "Expression levels of cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 were analyzed using flow cytometry." — Research manuscript