Killer cell lectin-like receptor subfamily C member 3 (KLRC3)

Killer cell lectin-like receptor subfamily C member 3 (KLRC3), also known as NKG2-E, is a type II integral membrane protein primarily expressed in natural killer (NK) cells and some cytotoxic T cells. It is a C-type lectin-like receptor that enables the recognition of MHC class I HLA-E molecules, influencing NK cell–mediated cytotoxicity and immune regulatory pathways. KLRC3 has emerged as an important factor in tumor biology, particularly in glioblastoma and endometrial cancer, where its expression correlates with tumor aggressiveness, stem cell–like phenotypes, and radioresistance. While not currently targeted by established drugs, its involvement in cancer biology and immune surveillance highlights its potential as a therapeutic target and biomarker in oncology and immune-mediated diseases.

Other names

NKG2-E type II integral membrane proteinNKG2ENKG2-ENK cell receptor ENKG2-E-activating NK receptorkiller cell lectin-like receptor C3

Recognition and binding to HLA-E (a non-classical MHC class I molecule) leading to NK cell activation or inhibition. Participates in the modulation of NK cell–mediated cytotoxicity by interacting with immunoregulatory protein complexes.