immunreceptor

An immunreceptor is a protein or protein complex that plays a crucial role in the immune system by recognizing and binding to specific molecules, known as antigens, on the surface of pathogens or other foreign substances. These receptors are expressed on the surface of immune cells, such as T cells, B cells, and natural killer (NK) cells, and are essential for the initiation and regulation of immune responses.

Immunreceptors can be classified into several types based on their structure and function. For example, T cell receptors (TCRs) are specific to T cells and recognize peptide antigens presented by major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules. B cell receptors (BCRs) are found on B cells and recognize intact antigens. NK cell receptors, such as killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIRs) and natural cytotoxicity receptors (NCRs), recognize stress-induced molecules on target cells.

The interaction between immunreceptors and antigens triggers a cascade of intracellular signaling events that lead to the activation, proliferation, and differentiation of immune cells. This process is vital for the body's defense against infections and the elimination of malignant cells. Immunreceptors also play a role in immune regulation, helping to maintain self-tolerance and prevent autoimmune responses.

Advances in immunreceptor research have led to the development of novel therapeutic strategies, such as chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy, which involves engineering T cells to express immunreceptors that recognize specific tumor antigens. This approach has shown promise in the treatment of various cancers by redirecting the immune system to attack and eliminate malignant cells.