Human Poliovirus Receptor (PVR) Protein

Background

PVR, also known as CD155, is a cell adhesion molecule primarily involved in cell signaling, immune modulation, and viral entry. The gene encoding this protein is found on chromosome 19q13.31, and the protein was initially identified as the receptor for poliovirus, facilitating viral entry into cells. However, PVR is not limited to viral entry functions; it plays a significant role in immune cell interactions, migration, and tissue development. Structurally part of the immunoglobulin superfamily, PVR is widely expressed in various tissues, including epithelial cells, endothelial cells, and immune cells, and is upregulated in certain cancers, suggesting an adaptive role in tumor immune escape mechanisms. This protein is a primary ligand for several immune checkpoints such as DNAM-1 (CD226), TIGIT, and CD96, highlighting its importance in immune system modulation.