CD99/MIC2

CD99 is a 32 kDa type I transmembrane glycoprotein encoded by the MIC2 gene, which lies in the pseudoautosomal region of the sex chromosomes and escapes X inactivation. It engages in homophilic adhesion and participates in T cell costimulation, thymocyte positive selection, and leukocyte diapedesis. CD99 is strongly and diffusely expressed by Ewing sarcoma and primitive neuroectodermal tumors, making membrane CD99 a key diagnostic immunohistochemical marker for this group. It is also found on pancreatic beta cells, ovarian granulosa cells, and many lymphoid cells. Antibodies against CD99 have been explored to modulate immune responses and as therapeutic leads in Ewing sarcoma.