C-Type Lectin Domain Family 4, Member M (CLEC4M) Antibody

Background

CLEC4M (C-type lectin domain family 4 member M), also known as L-SIGN (liver/lymph node-specific ICAM-3 grabbing non-integrin), is a member of the C-type lectin receptor family that primarily functions as a carbohydrate-binding receptor on endothelial cells. CLEC4M is highly expressed on sinusoidal endothelial cells, particularly in the liver and lymph nodes. This receptor is involved in pathogen recognition and immune response modulation, functioning in cellular adhesion and interactions with a variety of pathogens through specific carbohydrate binding. CLEC4M plays a role in the immune system’s surveillance of pathogens and in mediating interactions with viruses, bacteria, and other infectious agents, particularly in tissues involved in blood filtration and immune processing. CLEC4M has garnered significant interest due to its ability to bind to glycosylated molecules on pathogens, such as viruses like SARS-CoV, HIV-1, and hepatitis C, contributing to viral capture and cellular entry. Additionally, it can act as a trans-infection receptor, where it captures viruses on non-permissive cells, which are then transferred to permissive cells to facilitate viral replication. Thus, CLEC4M’s role in pathogen recognition and immune response regulation is crucial to both its physiological function and its involvement in disease.