Activating natural killer cell receptors recognizing dendritic cell-expressed ligands

This target refers to a group of activating receptors expressed on Natural Killer (NK) cells that recognize specific ligands on Dendritic Cells (DCs), facilitating the critical NK-DC crosstalk. Key members include the Natural Cytotoxicity Receptors (NCRs) such as NKp30 (NCR3) and NKp46 (NCR1), as well as NKG2D (KLRK1) and DNAM-1 (CD226). These receptors mediate two primary functions: the 'editing' of the immune response by killing immature DCs and the promotion of DC maturation through the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines like IFN-gamma and TNF-alpha. This interaction is essential for the initiation of adaptive immune responses and effective tumor immunosurveillance. In therapeutic contexts, these receptors are targeted by bispecific NK cell engagers (NKCEs), CAR-NK cells, and monoclonal antibodies to enhance NK cell-mediated destruction of tumor cells and improve the overall anti-tumor immune environment.

Other names

NK cell activating receptorsNatural cytotoxicity receptorsNCRsNKp30 (NCR3)NKp46 (NCR1)NKG2D (KLRK1)DNAM-1 (CD226)

Activation of NK cell cytotoxicity and cytokine production through engagement of activating receptors, often via multispecific engagers or CAR-based redirection, to promote tumor cell lysis and dendritic cell maturation.