Killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptor 2DS5 (KIR2DS5)

Killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptor 2DS5 (KIR2DS5) is an activating receptor expressed on human natural killer (NK) cells and some T cell subsets, belonging to the immunoglobulin superfamily and encoded within the leukocyte receptor complex on chromosome 19[2][3][4][5]. The receptor consists of two extracellular Ig-like domains and a short cytoplasmic tail, which lacks inhibitory motifs and instead mediates activating signals via association with adaptor proteins. KIR2DS5 is polymorphic, especially in African populations, and certain alleles (e.g., KIR2DS5*006) can recognize the C2 epitope of HLA-C and confer protection against pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia. By binding subsets of HLA class I molecules, KIR2DS5 plays a role in regulating NK cell cytotoxicity, immune response, and cytokine production. The gene and its alleles have been associated with risks for diseases such as type 1 diabetes and preeclampsia, but direct pharmacological targeting has not yet been established[1][2][3][5].

Other names

KIR2DS5killer cell immunoglobulin like receptor, two Ig domains and short cytoplasmic tail 5KI2S5CD158gCD158g1

Targeting the receptor could modify NK cell activation and cytotoxic function (theoretical; not clinically validated)[1][2][5].