Killer Cell Lectin-Like Receptor Subfamily C, Member 2 Protein

Background

Killer cell lectin like receptor C2 (KLRC2), commonly referred to as NKG2C, is an activating receptor expressed on NK cells and some T cells. Unlike KLRC1, KLRC2 interacts with HLA-E to initiate stimulatory signals that enhance cytotoxic responses and cytokine production. KLRC2 signaling is mediated through its association with the adaptor molecule DAP12, which contains immunoreceptor tyrosine-based activation motifs (ITAMs) responsible for triggering downstream signaling cascades. This receptor is pivotal in the immune response against infected or transformed cells, particularly in conditions where HLA-E is overexpressed due to stress or infection. KLRC2 is also involved in adaptive immune responses, contributing to the expansion and memory-like properties of NK cells, especially during cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections. Targeting KLRC2 pathways is being explored to potentiate immune responses in infectious diseases and cancer therapies.