Killer Cell Immunoglobulin-Like Receptor Genes

Killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIRs) are the molecules expressed on the surface of the natural killer (NK) cells and play an important role in innate immunity. KIRs are encoded by a gene cluster at human chromosome 19q13.4. The KIR gene cluster is highly polymorphic, with individual genes exhibiting allelic variability and individual haplotypes differing in gene content. The polymorphism of the KIR locus parallels that of the HLA, facilitating the adaptation of the immune system to a dynamic, challenging environment. This variation is associated with a growing number of human diseases. This review discussed the biology and genetics of KIR molecules which are important in many diseases and transplantation immunology. [Archives Medical Review Journal 2011; 20(3.000): 131-144