• This gene encodes the highly polymorphic major histocompatability complex class I chain-related protein A. The protein product is expressed on the cell surface, although unlike canonical class I molecules it does not seem to associate with beta-2-microglobulin. It is a ligand for the NKG2-D type II integral membrane protein receptor. 
• The human gene coding sequence was inserted to mouse Hipp11(H11) allele in B-hMICA mice. 
• Human MICA was exclusively detectable on T cells, B cells and NK cells of homozygous B-hMICA mice.
• Application: For example, This product is used for pharmacodynamics and safety evaluation of cancer.

Mechanism of action

Dual role of MICA/B as target molecule for immunosurveillance by NK cells and as mediator of tumor immune escape. 

• Immunosurveillance: MICA/B expressed on the cell surface of tumor cells can be recognized by NK cells through NKG2D and promote a cytotoxic response that leads to tumor cell elimination.
• Immunoevasion: MICA/B can associate with the ERp5 chaperone and, through a proteolytic cleavage mediated by ADAM10, ADAM17 and MMP14, generate sMICA/B that promote NKG2D down-regulation and impairment of NK cell-effector functions, thus facilitating tumor immune escape.

Protein expression analysis in spleen T, B and NK cells