NK cell recognition of non-classical HLA class I molecules

Semin Immunol. 2000 Apr;12(2):109-19. doi: 10.1006/smim.2000.0213.

Abstract

NK cells recognize several HLA class Ib molecules employing both immunoglobulin-like (Ig-like) and C-type lectin receptors. The CD94/NKG2 and NKG2D lectin-like molecules, respectively, interact with HLA-E and MICA; CD94/NKG2A functions as an inhibitory receptor, while CD94/NKG2C and NKG2D trigger NK cell activity. HLA-E predominantly presents nonamers from the leader sequences of other class I molecules; a peptide derived from HLA-G1 constitutes the highest affinity ligand for both CD94/NKG2 receptors. Members of the Ig-like transcript (ILT) or leucocyte Ig-like receptor (LIR) family (ILT2 or LIR-1 and ILT4 or LIR-2), expressed by other leucocyte lineages, interact with a broad spectrum of HLA class Ia molecules and HLA-G1. Among Ig-like KIRs, the KIR2DL4 (p49) receptor has been shown to specifically recognize HLA-G1; this molecule displays an unusual hybrid structure, sharing features with inhibitory and triggering KIRs.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cytotoxicity, Immunologic*
  • HLA Antigens*
  • Histocompatibility Antigens Class I*
  • Killer Cells, Natural / immunology*
  • Receptors, Immunologic*

Substances

  • HLA Antigens
  • Histocompatibility Antigens Class I
  • Receptors, Immunologic