Özlem Coşkun
CD38 is a type II transmembrane glycoprotein and serves as the primary ectoenzyme responsible for regulating cellular nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) levels in mammalian tissues. Initially identified as a lymphocyte activation marker, recent research has revealed its significant role in immunosuppression within oncological processes, NAD+ depletion associated with aging, and exosomal signaling. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the enzymatic functions of CD38, its pathophysiological impacts on both hematological and solid tumors, and the mechanisms of resistance that emerge against anti-CD38 therapies. Furthermore, the potential of CD38 as an exosomal biomarker in liquid biopsy procedures and its function as a "metabolic resetter" for promoting healthy aging are explored.