The CD3 zeta chain, a component of the T cell receptor (TCR)/CD3 complex, is considered to be a limiting factor in the assembly and transport of the TCR/CD3 complex to the cell surface and is crucial to receptor signaling function. Recent studies have demonstrated altered expression and function of this signal transduction molecule in T and natural killer cells in patients with chronic inflammatory/autoimmune diseases. In this review, current knowledge concerning the expression of CD3 zeta chain as well as the mechanisms responsible for abnormal expression of this molecule in systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, and childhood idiopathic nephrotic syndrome are summarized.
Lidia Ciszak, Laboratory of Immunopathology, Department of Experimental Therapy, Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, R. Weigla 12, 53-114 Wroc?aw, Poland