FCGR1C
Description
Fcgr1c (Fc fragment of IgG receptor Ic) is a gene that encodes a protein involved in the immune response. It belongs to a family of genes known as Fc receptors, which play a crucial role in recognizing and binding to antibodies (immunoglobulins). Fcgr1c is specifically expressed on macrophages, which are immune cells that engulf and destroy foreign particles.
The Fcgr1c protein is composed of three domains: an extracellular domain that binds to antibodies, a transmembrane domain that anchors the protein to the cell membrane, and an intracellular domain that interacts with signaling molecules. When Fcgr1c binds to antibodies that are attached to pathogens, it triggers a signaling cascade that leads to the activation of macrophages and subsequent phagocytosis (ingestion of the pathogen).
Associated Diseases
Mutations or variations in the Fcgr1c gene have been linked to an increased susceptibility to certain diseases, including:
- Infectious diseases: Impaired Fcgr1c function can lead to a decreased ability to clear pathogens, increasing the risk of infections.
- Autoimmune diseases: Defects in Fcgr1c regulation can lead to an overactive immune response, triggering autoimmune disorders such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis.
- Cancer: Fcgr1c plays a role in the regulation of immune responses against cancer cells. Mutations in Fcgr1c have been associated with an increased risk of certain cancers, such as diffuse large B-cell lymphoma.
Did you Know ?
According to a study published in the journal Nature Immunology, individuals with a specific genetic variation in the Fcgr1c gene (a single nucleotide polymorphism, or SNP) have a 25% higher risk of developing SLE compared to those without the variation.
