The dendritic cell receptor Clec9A: dead cell recognition and immune modulation.

DC monitor the environment for potential “danger signals” that signify pathogen invasion, including non-homeostatic cell death caused by viruses. We identified a DC-specific receptor, Clec9A, which plays an important role in the recognition and processing of antigens (Ag) acquired from such dead cells, to initiate effective immune responses. Furthermore, Clec9A is a particularly effective target for the delivery of Ag directly to DC subsets for immune modulation. We recently identified that Clec9A recognises actin filaments revealed by dead and damaged cells. This project will elucidate the molecular interactions of Clec9A, and determine the role of these interactions in regulating Clec9A function, DC biology and the modulation of immune responses.