Killer cell lectin-like receptor (KLR (with specific members such as KLRD1 for CD94, KLRG1, etc.))

Killer cell lectin-like receptors are a family of type II transmembrane glycoproteins predominantly expressed on the surface of natural killer (NK) cells and some T lymphocytes[3][5]. They belong to the C-type lectin-like receptor superfamily and are encoded within the natural killer gene complex (NKC)[1][5]. These receptors can be either activating or inhibitory, regulating NK cell cytotoxicity and cytokine secretion in response to infected or transformed cells[3][7]. Structurally, these receptors have an intracellular N terminus, a single transmembrane domain, a stalk region of variable length, and an extracellular C-type lectin-like domain that has lost classical carbohydrate-binding function but instead recognizes protein ligands[1][5]. Notable members include CD94 (KLRD1), which forms heterodimers with NKG2 molecules to recognize HLA-E on target cells[4], and KLRG1, which binds E-cadherins involved in tissue integrity and tumor surveillance[2]. These receptors play critical roles in immune surveillance against tumors and infections by modulating NK cell activation through recognition of self or altered-self ligands. Their dysregulation is implicated in cancer progression and infectious diseases due to impaired immune responses[2][3]. No approved drugs directly target this entire class; however, their expression patterns may serve as biomarkers for immune status or disease progression. Safety concerns would relate primarily to potential overactivation or suppression of NK cells leading to autoimmunity or immunodeficiency. If you need information about a specific member within this subfamily—such as "CD94" (KLRD1) or "NKG2A"—please specify for more detailed data.

Other names

NK cell lectin-like receptorKiller cell lectin-like receptorC-type lectin-like NK receptorNatural killer cell C-type lectin receptorCD94 (for KLRD1)NKG2 family (for KLRC subfamily)