Invariant natural killer T-cell receptor (iNKT TCR) (iNKT TCR)

The invariant natural killer T-cell receptor (iNKT TCR) is a specialized antigen receptor found on invariant natural killer T cells, a unique lineage of T cells that bridge innate and adaptive immunity (PMID: 24397171). Unlike conventional T-cell receptors that recognize peptide-MHC complexes, the iNKT TCR specifically recognizes lipid and glycolipid antigens presented by the non-polymorphic MHC class I-like molecule, CD1d (PMID: 17641654). In humans, the receptor is defined by a highly conserved Vα24-Jα18 alpha chain paired with a Vβ11 beta chain (PMID: 11163110). Activation of the iNKT TCR by potent agonists, such as alpha-galactosylceramide (α-GalCer), triggers the rapid and massive secretion of cytokines like IFN-gamma and IL-4, which subsequently activate other immune effectors including NK cells, dendritic cells, and B cells (PMID: 21217761). This rapid response makes the iNKT TCR a significant target for immunotherapies aimed at treating cancer, infectious diseases, and autoimmune disorders (PMID: 29158675).

Other names

Vα24-Jα18 TCRVα14-Jα18 TCRType I NKT cell receptorCD1d-restricted T-cell receptor

Agonist binding to the iNKT TCR in the context of CD1d presentation leads to rapid T-cell activation and downstream immune modulation (PMID: 21217761).