Cd207

Acronym for cluster of differentiation (CD) 207. CD207 is synonymous with Langerin or C-type lectin domain family 4 member K), a protein expressed by Langerhans cells, CD103-positive dendritic cells of the skin and CD8-positive dendritic cells of the spleen. the coding CD207 gene is located on chromosome 2p13.3. Diseases associated with CD207 include Abt-Letterer-Siwe disease, eosinophilic granuloma, Hand-Schüller-Christian disease and Langerhans cell sarcoma.

The CD207 protein (Langerin) is a type II transmembrane protein and a C-type lectin. Langerin is not only expressed at the cell surface but can be internalized and accumulates intracellularly in Birbeck granules. Langerin variants are evaluated as potential risk genes for atopic dermatitis (Feinberg H et al. 2013).

Langerine binds and mediates the uptake and degradation of glycoconjugates that include mannose and related sugars. These properties suggest that Langerine plays a role in uptake and processing of antigens (see antigen presentation, see Langerhans cell). Via Langerin, Langerhans cells can introduce lipid antigens into the CD1 presentation pathway.

Langerin continues to be involved in the development of the Birbeck granules' mebrane structures. Probably Langerin serves the immune system as an inhibiting "resistance factor" through the binding of mannose, e.g. in HIV-1 infections, in infections caused by mycobacteria and yeasts.

1. de Witte et al (2007) Langerin is a natural barrier to HIV-1 transmission by Langerhans cells. Nature Med 13: 367-371
2. Feinberg H et al (2013) Common polymorphisms in human langerin change specificity for glycan ligands. J Biol Chem 288: 36762-36771
3. Pillow Penny A et al (2005) Disruption of the langerin/CD207 gene abolishes Birbeck granules without a marked loss of Langerhans cell function. Molec Cell Biol 25: 88-99
4. Mommaas M et al (1994) Functional human epidermal Langerhans cells that lack Birbeck granules. J Invest Derm 103: 807-810