Dendritic-cell entry receptor

Dendritic-cell entry receptors are a functional class of cell-surface proteins, primarily belonging to the C-type lectin receptor (CLR) family, that facilitate the binding and internalization of pathogens or antigens by dendritic cells. Key members include DC-SIGN (CD209), DEC-205 (CD205), and Langerin (CD207). These receptors play a dual role: they are essential for the innate immune system to capture and process antigens for presentation to T cells, but they are also exploited by various viruses (such as HIV-1, Ebola, and Dengue) to gain entry into the host or to be transported to lymphoid tissues. In therapeutic contexts, these receptors are targeted by antibody-antigen conjugates and nanoparticle-based vaccines to enhance the delivery of antigens directly to dendritic cells, thereby boosting the adaptive immune response. Drugs and inhibitors targeting these receptors are being explored to block viral infection or to modulate immune responses in cancer and autoimmune diseases.

Other names

DC entry receptorsDendritic cell C-type lectin receptorsDC-SIGN (CD209)DEC-205 (CD205)Langerin (CD207)CLEC9AMannose receptor (CD206)BDCA-2 (CLEC4C)

Binding to the receptor facilitates internalization (endocytosis) of the pathogen or therapeutic cargo (e.g., antigen), leading to antigen processing and presentation or viral entry.