C-type lectin domain family 1 member A (CLEC1A) (CLEC-1)

C-type lectin domain family 1 member A (CLEC-1) is a transmembrane receptor primarily expressed on myeloid cells, including dendritic cells and macrophages, as well as on endothelial cells. It serves as a novel myeloid immune checkpoint and a "death sensor" that recognizes damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) such as TRIM21 and melanin from necrotic or dying cells. In the tumor microenvironment, CLEC-1 signaling suppresses the immune system by limiting the ability of conventional type-1 dendritic cells (cDC1) to cross-present antigens to CD8+ T cells, thereby facilitating tumor immune evasion. Research indicates that inhibiting CLEC-1 with antagonist antibodies can restore dendritic cell function and enhance antitumor T-cell activity, making it a promising therapeutic target for solid tumors like hepatocellular carcinoma and colorectal cancer. Beyond oncology, CLEC-1 is involved in regulating sterile inflammation and mediating host defense against fungal infections such as aspergillosis.

Other names

CLEC1CLEC1AC-type lectin-like receptor 1MelLec

Antagonist blockade of the CLEC-1 receptor to prevent its interaction with endogenous ligands such as TRIM21, thereby enhancing the cross-presentation of tumor-associated antigens by dendritic cells and invigorating cytotoxic T-cell responses.