CD69

CD69, historically called the early activation antigen, is a type II transmembrane C-type lectin homodimer induced within hours on lymphocytes, NK cells, and other leukocytes after activation. Although grouped with C-type lectins, its best-characterized functions are independent of sugar binding: its cytoplasmic tail drives costimulatory signaling and cytokine production, while its extracellular domain binds sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor 1, causing S1PR1 internalization and thereby retaining activated lymphocytes in tissues. CD69 consequently marks recent antigen encounter and tissue residency, is used to gauge lymphocyte activation in vitro, and influences chronic inflammation, atherosclerosis, and antiviral responses. Recombinant CD69 supports activation assays and S1P-axis studies.