Cluster Of Differentiation 1d (CD1d)

CD1d is a member of the CD1 (cluster of differentiation 1) family of glycoproteins expressed on the surface of various human antigen-presenting cells. They are related to the class I MHC molecules, and are involved in the presentation of lipid antigens to T cells. It is the only member of the group 2 CD1 molecules. The CD1 family members are thought to differ in their cellular localization and specificity for particular lipid ligands. The protein encoded by this gene localizes to late endosomes and lysosomes via a tyrosine-based motif in the cytoplasmic tail.CD1d presented lipid antigens activate a special class of T cells, known as Natural Killer T (NKT) cells. When activated, NKT cells rapidly produce Th1 and Th2 cytokines, typically represented by interferon-gamma and IL-4 production.