CLEC9A

CLEC9A is a type of C-type lectin receptor that is encoded by the CLEC9A gene in humans. It is also known as DNGR-1 (Dendritic Cell Natural Killer Lectin Group Receptor-1). CLEC9A is primarily expressed on the surface of dendritic cells, which play a crucial role in the immune system by processing antigen material and presenting it on the cell surface to the T cells of the immune system.

Structure

The CLEC9A gene is located on the short (p) arm of chromosome 12 at position 13.2. The protein encoded by this gene is a member of the C-type lectin/C-type lectin-like domain (CTL/CTLD) superfamily. The encoded protein is a single-pass type II membrane protein and contains one C-type lectin domain.

Function

CLEC9A functions as an endocytic receptor on a small subset of myeloid cells specialized for the uptake and processing of material from dead cells. It recognizes filamentous form of actin in cytoskeleton and is involved in the cross-presentation of dead-cell associated antigens in a syngeneic and necrosis-specific fashion.

Clinical significance

Changes in the function or expression of CLEC9A can have significant impacts on the immune response. For example, it has been suggested that CLEC9A may play a role in the development of autoimmune diseases, as it is involved in the presentation of self-antigens to the immune system. Additionally, CLEC9A has been implicated in the immune response to certain types of cancer, and may be a potential target for immunotherapy treatments.

See also

• C-type lectin
• Dendritic cell
• Immune system
• Autoimmune disease
• Immunotherapy