CD126(the acronym CD stands for "cluster of differentiation" and refers to groups of cellular surface features that have been ordered according to biochemical or functional criteria. The CD classification enables a comprehensible transparency in immunohistological and immunological diagnostics) designates the interleukin-6 receptor alpha chain (see below Interleukin-6).
This protein is
expressedby neoplastic but not by
mature plasma cells. It plays a central role in the pathogenesis of myeloma. CD126 induces proliferation and inhibits apoptosis of neoplastic plasma cells. In this respect, its blocking is the target of therapeutic efforts.