Anti-MICA + MICB antibody [EPR6568]

Supplementary info

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Activity summary

MICA and MICB also known as MIC-A and MIC-B are stress-induced proteins with significant roles in immune responses. These proteins are widely known for their presence on the surface of many human cell types most notably epithelial and endothelial cells. MICA is a glycoprotein with a molecular mass of approximately 70 kDa while MICB has a similar structure and mass. They are both part of the MHC class I-like molecules and function as ligands to the NKG2D receptor on natural killer (NK) cells and certain T cells a critical interaction for immune surveillance.

Biological function summary

MICA and MICB act in the activation of the immune system by modulating NK cells and CD8+ T cell activities. These proteins do not form part of a complex but operate independently to signal the presence of infected or transformed cells to the immune system. They often appear on the cell surface under stress such as during viral infections or cancerous transformations activating immune cells to target and destroy these abnormal cells.

Pathways

The MICA/MICB interaction with NKG2D is integral to the immune checkpoint pathway. This pathway plays a significant role in regulating the immune system’s response to aberrant cells. Additionally MICA and MICB activity is linked to the regulation of the cytokine IFN-γ promoting the recruitment and activation of immune effector cells. The roles of these proteins in these pathways underline their importance in maintaining immune homeostasis and responding to pathological challenges.

Associated diseases and disorders

MICA and MICB have notable associations with cancer and autoimmune diseases. Aberrant expression of these proteins on tumor cells facilitates their recognition and elimination by immune cells linking MICA and MICB directly to tumor immunosurveillance. In autoimmune disorders improper regulation of MICA/MICB expression can lead to undesirable immune cell activation contributing to conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. The proteins connect with others like NKG2D in both cancer immunity and autoimmune diseases highlighting their dual role in health and disease.