An immune receptor (or immunologic receptor) is a receptor, usually on a cell membrane, which binds to a ligand (usually another protein, such as cytokine) and causes a response in the immune system.

Schematic representation of an immune receptor

Types

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The main receptors in the immune system are pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), Toll-like receptors (TLRs), killer activated and killer inhibitor receptors (KARs and KIRs), complement receptors, Fc receptors, B cell receptors and T cell receptors.[1]

Comparison of different receptor targets and associated functions
Receptor Bind to [1] Function[1]
Pattern recognition receptors (PRRs)
(e.g. TLRs, NLRs)
Pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMP) Mediate cytokine production → inflammation → destroying pathogen
Killer activated and killer inhibitor receptors (KARs and KIRs) Avails NK cells to identify abnormal host cells (KAR) or inhibit inappropriate host cell destruction (KIR)
Complement receptors Complement proteins on e.g. microbes Allow phagocytic and B cells to recognize microbes and immune complexes
Fc receptors Epitope-antibody complexes Stimulate phagocytosis
B cell receptors Epitopes B cell differentiation into plasma cells and proliferation
T cell receptors Linear epitopes bound to MHC Activate T cells
Cytokine receptors Cytokines Regulation and co-ordination of immune responses

See also

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References

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  1. ^ a b c Lippincott's Illustrated Reviews: Immunology. Paperback: 384 pages. Publisher: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; (July 1, 2007). Language: English. ISBN 0-7817-9543-5. ISBN 978-0-7817-9543-2. Page 20
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