Sialic acid-binding immunoglobulin-type lectins (Siglecs)

Human sialic acid receptors, primarily represented by the Sialic acid-binding immunoglobulin-type lectins (Siglecs) and Selectins, are a diverse group of cell-surface proteins that recognize sialic acid-containing glycans. These receptors play critical roles in the immune system, acting as self recognition molecules that typically transmit inhibitory signals to prevent autoimmunity and overactive inflammatory responses (Varki & Angata, 2006). In the context of disease, many pathogens, including influenza viruses and certain bacteria, exploit these receptors for cell entry and immune evasion (Matrosovich et al., 2004). Furthermore, in oncology, certain Siglecs (e.g., Siglec-15, CD33, CD22) are upregulated on tumor cells or myeloid-derived suppressor cells, functioning as immune checkpoints that inhibit T-cell or NK-cell activity, making them attractive targets for monoclonal antibodies and antibody-drug conjugates (Wang et al., 2019; Duan & Paulson, 2020). Therapeutic strategies targeting these receptors aim to either block inhibitory signaling to enhance anti-tumor immunity or utilize them as anchors for the delivery of cytotoxic agents to specific cell populations, as seen with drugs like Gemtuzumab ozogamicin and Inotuzumab ozogamicin (Laszlo et al., 2014).

Other names

Human sialic acid receptorsSiglecsSialic acid-binding lectinsI-type lectinsCD33-related SiglecsSelectins

Antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) mediated cytotoxicity, immune checkpoint inhibition, and blockade of cell-cell adhesion.