KIR3DL3
KIR3DL3: A Key Immunomodulatory Receptor
Description
KIR3DL3 (Killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptor 3DL3) is a type of cell surface receptor found on natural killer (NK) cells and T cells. It belongs to the KIR family of receptors, which play a crucial role in regulating immune responses. KIR3DL3 is specifically responsible for recognizing HLA-B molecules, which are expressed on the surface of all nucleated cells.
KIR3DL3 is a transmembrane protein consisting of an extracellular immunoglobulin-like domain, a transmembrane domain, and an intracellular domain. The extracellular domain binds to HLA-B molecules, while the intracellular domain interacts with signaling molecules to trigger downstream immune responses.
Associated Diseases
KIR3DL3 has been associated with the development and progression of several diseases, including:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS): KIR3DL3 has been found to be associated with increased susceptibility to MS, an autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system.
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): KIR3DL3 has been linked to an increased risk of developing RA, an autoimmune disease that affects the joints.
- Type 1 diabetes: KIR3DL3 has been associated with an increased risk of developing type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune disease that affects the pancreas.
- HIV infection: KIR3DL3 has been found to play a role in the progression of HIV infection, influencing viral load and disease severity.
Did you Know ?
KIR3DL3 is one of the most polymorphic genes in the human genome, with over 100 different alleles identified. This high degree of polymorphism suggests that KIR3DL3 plays an important role in immune regulation and may have evolved to provide resistance to specific pathogens.
