Target intelligence / Profile preview

Major histocompatibility complex class I-related protein A (MICA)

Target: MICA
Molecular classification: Receptor, MHC-like protein, Stress-induced self-antigen

Overview

Major histocompatibility complex class I-related protein A (MICA) is a stress-induced self-antigen and ligand for the activating receptor NKG2D, expressed on NK cells, γδ T cells, and CD8+ αβ T cells. MICA does not present peptides like classical MHC class I molecules but instead signals cellular stress, activating cytolytic responses against stressed or transformed cells. Altered expression or shedding of soluble MICA is associated with cancers, autoimmune disorders, and transplant rejection. MICA is highly polymorphic, impacting NKG2D binding affinity and influencing susceptibility to various diseases.

Mechanism of action

N/A

Biological functions

Immune responseNK cell activationT cell activationCytotoxicity inductionDanger signalLigand presentation

Disease associations

CancerAutoimmune disordersTransplant rejection

Safety considerations

Antibody formation against polymorphic variants in transplantationImmune evasion by tumor cells through MICA shedding or downregulationPotential role in autoimmunity

Biomarkers

sMICA levels in serum (various diseases)MICA expression on tumor cells

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