CD314 (also known as NKG2D) is a cell surface receptor belonging to the C-type lectin-like family, primarily expressed on natural killer (NK) cells, γδ T cells, and CD8+ αβ T cells. It functions as an activating receptor that recognizes stress-inducible molecules, such as MIC (MHC class I chain-related) proteins and UL16-binding proteins (ULBPs), which are upregulated on infected, malignant, or otherwise stressed cells. CD314 antibodies are tools designed to target this receptor or its ligands, enabling research into immune activation mechanisms and therapeutic applications.
In research, anti-CD314 antibodies are used to block or stimulate NKG2D signaling, helping to elucidate its role in immune surveillance, tumor immunity, and autoimmune diseases. Therapeutically, CD314-targeting antibodies have dual potential: agonist antibodies may enhance immune cell cytotoxicity against tumors, while antagonist antibodies could suppress harmful immune responses in autoimmune conditions. However, challenges exist, such as tumor-derived soluble NKG2D ligands that may compromise efficacy. Several monoclonal antibodies (e.g., clones 1D11. 5C6) are widely used in flow cytometry and functional studies. Clinical trials exploring NKG2D-based CAR-T therapies and antibody-drug conjugates highlight its translational significance. Current research focuses on optimizing antibody specificity and addressing microenvironmental resistance mechanisms in cancer immunotherapy.