Target intelligence / Profile preview

Killer Immunoglobulin-like Receptor (KIR)

Target: KIR
Molecular classification: Receptor, Type I transmembrane glycoprotein

Overview

Killer immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIRs) are a family of type I transmembrane glycoproteins primarily expressed on the surface of natural killer (NK) cells and, to a lesser extent, on some T cell subsets. KIRs play a central role in regulating NK cell activity by interacting with major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules—specifically human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-A, -B, and -C alleles—on target cells. They mediate tolerance/self-recognition versus pathogen/tumor detection through interaction with diverse MHC-I alleles. Genetic diversity underpins individual differences in disease susceptibility/outcome.

Mechanism of action

N/A

Biological functions

Immune responseRegulation of NK cell activitySelf-tolerancePathogen defenseTumor defense

Disease associations

InfectionAutoimmune diseasePregnancy complicationsCancer

Safety considerations

Potential for off-target effects due to high polymorphismRisk of autoimmunity due to disruption of self-tolerance

Beyond the preview

Go deeper on Killer Immunoglobulin-like Receptor (KIR).

Explore the evidence, development activity, and competitive landscape with Gosset’s full data platform.

Drug pipeline

Explore the programs pursuing this target and their development progress.

Drug candidates
Developers
Development stage

Clinical trials

Follow the clinical studies evaluating therapies directed at this target.

Trial design
Status
Readouts

Competitive landscape

Compare approaches across drug candidates, modalities, and indications.

Programs
Modalities
Indications

Literature & evidence

Investigate the research and source evidence behind target biology and development.

Publications
Sources
Analysis

Patents

Explore patent activity around therapies and technologies addressing this target.

Patents
Assignees
Technologies

Research & analysis

Connect target biology, drug development, and emerging evidence in your research.

Biology
Development news
Analysis

Bring the full picture into focus.

See how Gosset can support your research on Killer Immunoglobulin-like Receptor (KIR).

Explore the full profile