CD73 is expressed on invading T lymphocytes in the inflamed peripheral nerve.

CD73 is a cell surface enzyme that modulates immune and inflammatory responses by affecting adenosine-receptor-mediated signaling. We examined its expression and cellular distribution in the inflamed human peripheral nerve. CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes stained positive for CD73, with no differences in numbers between acute and chronic inflammatory polyneuropathies. Endothelial cells in the peripheral nerve did not express CD73. Our findings support the concept that CD73 is involved in lymphocyte entry into the inflamed nervous system. Muscle Nerve 40: 287-289, 2009.