C-Type Lectin Domain Family 4, Member G (CLEC4G)

The LSECtin (CLEC4G) gene is located between the CD23 and DC-SIGN genes with the three genes arranged in the same orientation. LSECtin encodes a protein with a lectin domain followed by a 110-residue stalk region, a transmembrane domain, and a 31-residue cytoplasmic domain. LSECtin has been previously detected on liver and lymph node sinusoidal endothelial cells at the protein and RNA level.

LSECtin functions as an attachment factor for Ebola virus and SARS, but it does not bind HIV or hepatitis C virus. LSECtin exhibits ligand-induced internalization, and its sugar recognition specificity differs from that of DC-SIGN. The presence of LSECtin on myeloid cells should therefore contribute to expanding their antigen-capture and pathogen-recognition capabilities.