CD94NKG2A
CD94/NKG2A is a heterodimeric inhibitory receptor expressed mainly on natural killer (NK) cells and some cytotoxic T cell subsets. It consists of the CD94 (KLRD1) subunit and the NKG2A (KLRC1) subunit; NKG2A provides the intracellular signaling module, while CD94 participates in ligand recognition. The receptor forms part of the human NK cell receptor repertoire that helps distinguish healthy cells from stressed or abnormal cells.
The ligand for CD94/NKG2A is HLA-E, a non-classical MHC class I molecule. HLA-E presents peptides derived from
Expression of CD94/NKG2A is highest on NK cells, but it is also found on certain CD8+ T
Clinical relevance is evolving. Blocking CD94/NKG2A with monoclonal antibodies (for example, anti-NKG2A agents in clinical trials)