C-type lectin receptors (CLRs) are a large family of soluble and trans-membrane
pattern recognition receptors that are widely and primarily expressed on myeloid cells. CLRs are important for cell-cell communication and host defense against pathogens through the recognition of specific
carbohydrate structures. Similar to a family of
Toll-like receptors, CLRs signaling are involved in the various steps for initiation of innate immune responses and promote secretion of soluble factors such as
cytokines and
interferons. Moreover, CLRs contribute to endocytosis and antigen presentation, thereby fine-tune adaptive immune responses. In addition, there may also be a direct activation of acquired immunity. On the other hand,
glycans, such as
mannose structures, Lewis-type
antigens, or GalNAc are components of
tumor antigens and ligate CLRs, leading to immunoregulation. Therefore, agonists or antagonists of CLRs signaling are potential therapeutic
reagents for
cancer immunotherapy. We aim to overview the current knowledge of CLRs signaling and the application of their
ligands on
tumor-associating immune response.