LILRB2
Leukocyte immunoglobulin-like receptor B2
Also known as: LILRB2, ILT4, CD85d, LIR2, MIR10
Biology & Mechanism
LILRB2 is an inhibitory receptor expressed on myeloid cells including microglia that binds APOE and other ligands to suppress immune activation. LILRB2 may mediate some of the immunosuppressive effects of APOE on microglial function. Variants near the LILRB2 locus have been identified in Alzheimer's disease GWAS. Its interaction with APOE4 may contribute to impaired microglial responses in high-risk individuals.
Open Questions
- —Does LILRB2-APOE4 interaction directly impair microglial phagocytosis in human brain?
- —Can LILRB2 blockade rescue APOE4-impaired microglial function?
- —What is the full spectrum of LILRB2 ligands in the brain parenchyma?
Sources
- APOE binds to microglial LILRB2 to suppress phagocytosis (2021)
Last reviewed: June 1, 2026