Heat shock protein receptor (dendritic cell)

Heat shock proteins (HSPs) are molecular chaperones that, when released from stressed or dying cells, form complexes with antigenic peptides. These complexes are recognized and internalized by dendritic cells primarily via surface receptors such as CD91 and SREC-I. The process is known as heat shock protein receptor-mediated uptake and is pivotal for the activation and maturation of dendritic cells, polarizing immune responses towards Th1 phenotypes, stimulating cytokine secretion, and initiating adaptive immunity. This mechanism is being explored in vaccine development and cancer immunotherapy, due to its ability to efficiently present antigens and elicit robust cellular immune responses.

Other names

HSP receptorSREC-I (scavenger receptor expressed by endothelial cell I)CD91 (also called LDL receptor-related protein 1, LRP1)various scavenger receptors

Facilitation of antigen uptake and cross-presentation, resulting in T cell activation Promotion of dendritic cell maturation and cytokine/chemokine production