http://www.creativebiomart.net/description_382912_12.htm

CD83 antigen, also known as B-cell activation protein, Cell surface protein HB15 and CD83, is a single-pass type I membrane protein which contains one Ig-like V-type (immunoglobulin-like) domain. CD83 is a a conserved member of the immunoglobulin superfamily. CD83 is expressed by activated lymphocytes, Langerhans cells and interdigitating reticulum cells. CD83 is a fascinating cell surface molecule with a unique pattern of expression that has multiple confirmed functions in regulating immune system development and function. CD83 represents an intriguing target for immunotherapy due to its preferential expression on mature dendritic cells (DCs), the most efficient of antigen presenting cells. On the protein level, two different isoforms of CD83 exist: a membrane-bound and a soluble form. The isoforms are generated by different subsets of cells, including DCs, T-cells and B-cells, and also differ in their biological function. While the membrane-bound CD83 is of immune stimulatory capacity, activates T-cells and is important for the generation of thymocytes, the soluble CD83 has the opposite effect and has an immune inhibitory capacity. Due to its immune inhibitory function. CD83 may play a significant role in antigen presentation or the cellular interactions that follow lymphocyte activation. CD83 has great potential for treatment of autoimmune diseases, for organ transplantations, and for immunotherapy, just to name a few examples. Moreover, some viruses prevent recognition by the hosts immune system by specifically targeting CD83 surface expression.