C-type lectin domain family 14 member A (CLEC14A) (CLEC14A)

C-type lectin domain family 14 member A (CLEC14A) is a type I transmembrane glycoprotein that is specifically and highly expressed on the endothelial cells of tumor blood vessels, while remaining virtually absent in normal adult tissues (Zhuang et al., 2011). It plays a critical role in orchestrating tumor angiogenesis by regulating endothelial cell migration, adhesion, and tube formation through interactions with the extracellular matrix and other endothelial cells (Noy et al., 2015). Due to its high tumor-specificity, CLEC14A is considered an ideal therapeutic target for vascular-disrupting agents and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) designed to starve tumors of their blood supply (Robinson et al., 2020). Current therapeutic strategies include monoclonal antibodies that block its pro-angiogenic signaling and CAR-T cell therapies directed against the tumor vasculature (Zhuang et al., 2011). Its expression is often used as a biomarker for tumor-associated endothelium, distinguishing it from normal physiological vasculature (Noy et al., 2015). This target offers a significant therapeutic window because its expression is restricted to the site of disease, potentially minimizing off-target toxicity in healthy organs (Robinson et al., 2020).

Other names

C14orf27EGFR-fiveCEG1C-type lectin domain-containing protein 14A

Inhibition of tumor angiogenesis by blocking CLEC14A-mediated endothelial cell migration and tube formation, or selective destruction of tumor vasculature via antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) or CAR-T cells.