CD1c molecule (CD1C)

CD1c molecule is a member of the CD1 family of transmembrane glycoproteins that are structurally related to major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I proteins.[3] It forms heterodimers with β2-microglobulin and is primarily involved in the presentation of self and microbial lipid and glycolipid antigens to T-cell receptors on natural killer T cells and other unconventional T cells.[1][2][3] CD1c is broadly distributed in the endocytic compartment and plasma membrane of antigen-presenting cells such as dendritic cells and B lymphocytes, and serves both as an immune cell subset marker and a modulator of adaptive and innate immune responses.[2][3] It plays important roles in infection immunity (notably against mycobacteria), tumor immunity, and may be relevant in autoimmune and inflammatory diseases due to its role in non-peptide antigen presentation and T cell activation.[1][2][3]

Other names

T-cell surface glycoprotein CD1cBDCA1Cortical thymocyte antigen CD1cDifferentiation antigen CD1-alpha-3CD1CD1A (Note: sometimes misattributed; actual CD1A is distinct, but related as a family member)[3]R7c polypeptide

Drugs or molecules targeting CD1c would act via modulation of lipid antigen presentation, thereby altering T cell activation and immune response (particularly unconventional T cells such as natural killer T cells and specific subsets of CD4+ T cells)[1][2]