CD39 as a caveolar-associated ectonucleotidase

CD39 is a human lymphoid cell activation antigen, (also referred to E-ATPDase or apyrase) that hydrolyzes extracellular ATP and ADP. Although it has been widely studied, its physiological role, however, still remains unclear. This ectonucleotidase generally is said to be evenly distributed in the membrane of the cells. However, we observed that in cell types which possess caveolae, specialised membrane invaginations involved in signalling, CD39 is preferentially targeted to these membrane microdomains. Since all molecules involved in signalling (eNOS, G-proteins, receptors) which are targeted to the caveolae undergo posttranslational modifications (e.g., palmitoylation) we hypothesize the same to be the case for CD39. Furthermore, its presence in the caveolae supports its participation in signalling events.