Killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptor 2DL (KIR2DL) (KIR2DL)

Killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptor 2DL (KIR2DL) refers to a group of inhibitory receptors (KIR2DL1, KIR2DL2, and KIR2DL3) expressed primarily on Natural Killer (NK) cells and a subset of T cells (UniProt P43626, P43627, P43628). These receptors recognize specific Human Leukocyte Antigen C (HLA-C) molecules on target cells, serving as a critical immune checkpoint that prevents NK cells from attacking healthy self-tissues (PMID: 19602553). In many cancers, the HLA-C/KIR2DL axis is exploited to suppress NK cell-mediated anti-tumor immunity, facilitating immune evasion (PMID: 25194361). Therapeutic strategies involve the use of monoclonal antibodies, such as lirilumab, which act as antagonists to block the KIR2DL/HLA-C interaction. By disrupting this inhibitory signal, these agents enhance the cytotoxic activity of NK cells against malignant cells, making them a significant target in immuno-oncology (PMID: 22547596).

Other names

KIR2DL1KIR2DL2KIR2DL3CD158aCD158b1CD158b2MHC class I-C receptorKiller cell inhibitory receptor

Antagonistic monoclonal antibody that blocks the inhibitory interaction between KIR2DL receptors on NK cells and HLA-C ligands on target cells, thereby lowering the threshold for NK cell activation and promoting anti-tumor immunity (PMID: 22547596).