Seems to have no role in antigen presentation. Acts as a stress-induced self-antigen that is recognized by gamma delta T cells. Ligand for the KLRK1/NKG2D receptor. Binding to KLRK1 leads to cell lysis.
Specificity
Natural and recombinant Human MHC class I polypeptide-related sequence B
Subcellular Location
Cell membrane Single-pass type I membrane protein Binding to human cytomegalovirus glycoprotein UL16 causes sequestration in the endoplasmic reticulum.
Unlike classical MHC class I molecules, does not form a heterodimer with beta-2-microglobulin. Binds as a monomer to a KLRK1/NKG2D homodimer. KLRK1 forms a complex with HCST/DAP10 in which KLRK1 binds MICB while HCST acts as an adapter molecule which enables signal transduction. Receptor-ligand interaction induces clustering of both proteins in ordered structures called immune synapses and also leads to their intercellular transfer. This is associated with a reduction in the cytotoxicity of KLRK1-expressing cells. Binds to human cytomegalovirus glycoprotein UL16 which causes sequestration of MICB in the endoplasmic reticulum and increases resistance to KLRK1-mediated cytotoxicity.