FCAR gene

The FCAR gene (FCAR stands for: Fc alpha Receptor) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 19q13.42. Several alternatively spliced transcript variants encoding different isoforms have been described for this gene.

The gene belongs to the superfamily of immunoglobulin genes and encodes a receptor for the Fc region of IgA. The receptor is a transmembrane glycoprotein found on the surface of cells of the myeloid lineage such as neutrophils, monocytes, macrophages and eosinophils, where it mediates immunological responses to pathogens. The receptor protein binds to the Fc region of immunoglobulin alpha. Mediates several functions, including cytokine production. The encoded protein interacts with IgA-opsonized targets and triggers several immunological defense processes, including phagocytosis, antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity and stimulation of inflammatory mediator release.

Diseases associated with FCAR include IgA glomerulonephritis and alcoholic liver cirrhosis (Huang W et al. 2011). Zhong Z et al. found that four SNPs (rs11264794, rs7865684, rs11264799 and rs6691569) are significantly associated with susceptibility to IgA glomerulonephritis.

1. Huang W et al. (2011) Association of -27T>C and its haplotype at the putative promoter for IgA-specific receptor gene with IgA nephropathy among the Chinese Han population. Nephrol Dial Transplant 26:2537-2544.
2. Zhong Z et al. (2019) Association of FCRL3 Gene Polymorphisms with IgA Nephropathy in a Chinese Han Population. DNA Cell Biol 38:1155-1165.