Dendritic cell endocytic receptor

Dendritic cell endocytic receptors are a diverse group of cell surface molecules, primarily C-type lectin receptors (CLRs), that mediate the internalisation of pathogens and antigens for processing and presentation to the adaptive immune system [2, 3]. Key members include DEC-205 (CD205), CLEC9A (DNGR-1), the mannose receptor (CD206), and DC-SIGN (CD209) [1, 8]. In the context of vaccine delivery, these receptors are targeted using monoclonal antibodies or specific ligands conjugated to antigens to ensure efficient delivery to dendritic cells, the most potent antigen-presenting cells [6, 12]. This targeting strategy aims to enhance both MHC class II presentation to CD4+ T cells and MHC class I cross-presentation to CD8+ T cells, which is critical for generating robust anti-tumor and anti-viral cellular immunity [3, 14]. However, the outcome of targeting—whether it leads to immunity or tolerance—is highly dependent on the simultaneous provision of maturation signals such as adjuvants [4, 10]. Clinical and preclinical studies have explored various candidates, such as CDX-1401, which targets DEC-205 to deliver tumor antigens [14].

Other names

Dendritic cell antigen-uptake receptorDC-targeted receptorAntigen-delivery receptorC-type lectin receptor (DC-specific)DC endocytic receptor

Targeted delivery of antigens to dendritic cells via receptor-mediated endocytosis to enhance antigen processing and presentation on MHC molecules, particularly cross-presentation to CD8+ T cells [3, 6].