Hepatitis A Virus Cellular Receptor 1 (HAVCR1), also known as T-cell immunoglobulin mucin receptor 1 (TIM-1) and kidney injury molecule 1 (KIM-1), is a type-1 integral membrane glycoprotein. It plays a crucial role in various physiological processes, including immunity, renal regeneration, and intercellular interactions such as recognition and immune activation .
HAVCR1 contains two extracellular domains: a virus-binding immunoglobulin-like (IgV) domain and a mucin-like domain that extends the IgV from the cell membrane . The IgV domain is responsible for binding to the Hepatitis A Virus (HAV), facilitating its entry into the host cell. The mucin-like domain provides structural support and extends the IgV domain away from the cell surface .
HAVCR1 is a critical receptor for HAV, an atypical member of the Picornaviridae family that causes acute hepatitis in humans . The interaction between HAV and HAVCR1 is essential for the virus’s infectivity. Soluble forms of HAVCR1 can bind to and neutralize HAV, mimicking the cell entry process of the virus . This interaction requires specific physiological conditions, including temperature, calcium ions, and pH levels .
Studies have shown that HAVCR1 is not only a receptor for cell culture-adapted HAV but also for wild-type HAV . This makes HAVCR1 a significant target for research aimed at understanding HAV pathogenesis and developing therapeutic interventions. Additionally, HAVCR1 has been identified as a prognostic and diagnostic marker for various cancers, including liver hepatocellular carcinoma and pancreatic adenocarcinoma .