Activating ligands on tumor cells (null)

Activating ligands on tumor cells are a diverse group of surface molecules induced by cellular stress, DNA damage, or oncogenic transformation, recognized by activating receptors such as NKG2D (MICA, MICB, ULBP1–6), DNAM-1 (Nectin-2, PVR), and natural cytotoxicity receptors on NK and cytotoxic T cells. These interactions facilitate immune recognition and destruction of tumor cells; however, tumors frequently evade the immune system by shedding or suppressing these ligands' expression. Therapeutic strategies in immuno-oncology aim to exploit or enhance the presentation of activating ligands to restore antitumor immunity.

Other names

NKG2D ligandsNatural cytotoxicity receptor ligandsDNAM-1 ligands“Stress-induced ligands”

Immune cell activation: Binding to activating receptors (e.g., NKG2D, DNAM-1) on NK/T cells triggers cytotoxicity against tumor cells. Co-stimulation: Enhancing effector cell function. Release of soluble ligands: Can inhibit immune recognition.