Specialized Fc receptors (RECEPTORS, FC) for polymeric immunoglobulins, which mediate transcytosis of polymeric IMMUNOGLOBULIN A and IMMUNOGLOBULIN M into external secretions. They are found on the surfaces of epithelial cells and hepatocytes. After binding to IMMUNOGLOBULIN A, the receptor-ligand complex undergoes endocytosis, transport by vesicle, and secretion into the lumen by exocytosis. Before release, the part of the receptor (SECRETORY COMPONENT) that is bound to IMMUNOGLOBULIN A is proteolytically cleaved from its transmembrane tail. (From Rosen et al., The Dictionary of Immunology, 1989)
Also Known As:
Polymeric Immunoglobulin Receptor; Receptors, Polymeric Immunoglobulin; Poly-Ig Receptor; Polyimmunoglobulin Receptor; Polymeric Ig Receptor; Receptor, Polyimmunoglobulin; Receptor, Polymeric Ig; Ig Receptor, Polymeric; Immunoglobulin Receptor, Polymeric; Immunoglobulin Receptors, Polymeric; Poly Ig Receptor; Receptor, Poly-Ig; Receptor, Polymeric Immunoglobulin