Cd158k

Acronym for "Cluster if differentiation 158k". CD 158k (syn. KIR3DL2) is a member of the Ig-like receptor family of natural killer cells (NK cells). As a rule, CD 158k is only expressed on a small number of NK cells and rarely on cytotoxic (^CD8+) T cells.

CD158k is expressed relatively constantly on Sézary cells (important diagnostic criterion) and acts as a co-inhibitory receptor that controls resistance to activation-induced cell death(apoptosis).

Antibodies against CD158k could represent a therapeutic option.

CD158k also serves as a receptor for CpG oligodeoxynucleotides (CpG-ODN). Activation of the receptor by CpG-ODN leads to dephosphorylation of the transcription factor STAT3 and subsequently to apoptosis.

1. Hantschke M et al (2016) Immunohistological techniques. In: L. Cerroni et al. histopathology of the skin. Springer publishing house Berlin-Heidelberg p. 26-33.