TNFRSF17, Tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 17, CD269, CD antigen CD269, BCM, BCMA, B-cell maturation protein
B cell maturation antigen (BCMA), also known as tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 17 (TNFRSF17), is a transmembrane glycoprotein crucial for the survival and function of B lymphocytes, particularly plasma cells. Signaling via BCMA is induced by binding to its ligands, a B cell activating factor (BAFF) and a proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL), both of which are essential for B cell survival, maturation, and differentiation. BCMA has gained significant attention in the context of hematologic malignancies, particularly multiple myeloma. Aberrant expression of BCMA on myeloma cells contributes to the survival and proliferation of these malignant plasma cells. Therefore, a variety of therapeutic approaches targeting BCMA, such as bispecific antibody constructs, antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-modified T cell therapy, have been developed and revealed promising results in preclinical and clinical studies. Despite the progress in BCMA-targeted therapies, challenges regarding resistance mechanisms and relapse need to be further addressed.
