NK cell lectin like receptor subfamily K member 1 (NKG2D)

NK cell lectin like receptor subfamily K member 1, also known as NKG2D, is an activating and costimulatory receptor expressed on NK cells, γδ T cells, and CD8+ αβ T cells. It recognizes stress-induced ligands like MICA, MICB, and ULBP family members on target cells, triggering cytotoxic responses against infected or malignant cells. It plays a critical role in immunosurveillance and innate immunity, bridging to adaptive immune regulation. The receptor forms a homodimer and associates with the DAP10 adaptor protein for signal transduction. In mice, alternative splicing leads to two isoforms that bind either DAP10 or both DAP10 and DAP12.

Other names

KLRK1

Agonist or antagonist of KLRK1 receptor signaling.