C-Type Lectin Domain Family 4, Member C (CLEC4C) Antibody

Background

CLEC4C, also known as CD303 or BDCA-2 (Blood Dendritic Cell Antigen 2), is a member of the C-type lectin domain family 4 of receptors and is highly specific to plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs), a subset of immune cells that are crucial for antiviral responses. CLEC4C serves as a pattern recognition receptor (PRR), identifying and binding to carbohydrate structures on pathogens, which helps initiate immune responses. Unlike many other C-type lectins that are broadly expressed on various immune cells, CLEC4C is primarily expressed on pDCs, a unique cell type specializing in the secretion of large quantities of type I interferons (IFN-α/β) in response to viral infections. This exclusive expression gives CLEC4C a unique role in the immune system, particularly in antiviral defense and modulating immune responses in both innate and adaptive immunity. CLEC4C is involved in immune modulation by inhibiting type I interferon production when cross-linked, adding another layer to immune regulation. It is studied extensively in the context of autoimmune diseases and chronic infections because of its involvement in pDC-mediated responses. Furthermore, its specific expression on pDCs has made CLEC4C a target for therapeutic interventions aimed at modulating pDC activity in autoimmune diseases and certain cancers.