Tumor Cell Membrane Proteins Recognized by Activating Receptors on Natural Killer (NK) Cells (NK Cell Activating Ligands)

Tumor cell membrane proteins that serve as ligands for activating receptors on natural killer (NK) cells. These proteins, often upregulated or expressed de novo on tumor cells due to stress or transformation, play a crucial role in triggering NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity and tumor surveillance. Key examples include MICA/B, ULBPs, B7-H6, PCNA, and CD112/CD155. Engagement of these ligands by activating receptors such as NKG2D, NKp30, NCRs and DNAM-1 promotes NK cell activation and subsequent tumor cell lysis.

Other names

NK Cell Activating Receptor LigandsTumor-Associated Antigens (TAAs) for NK CellsStress-Induced Ligands on Tumor CellsNK cell activating ligands

Engagement of NK cell activating receptors leads to degranulation, release of perforin/granzymes, induction of apoptosis, and cytokine secretion (IFNγ, TNFα), resulting in tumor cell lysis or inhibition of survival signals.