Differentially regulated expression of human IgG Fc receptor class III genes

The expression of the human Fc receptor with low affinity for IgG (Fc gamma RIII, CD16) encoded by the Fc gamma RIII-A or Fc gamma RIII-B genes is restricted to natural killer (NK), a subset of T cells and macrophages or neutrophils (PMN). The genetic heterogeneity of Fc gamma RIII generates alternative membrane-anchored proteins with distinct signaling capacities when cross-linked by immune complexes. Of great importance is the characterization of the regulatory gene elements directing the expression of a particular Fc gamma RIII isoform to a given specific cell type. Molecular characterization of the Fc gamma RIII-A and Fc gamma RIII-B genes has revealed that the promoter regions display distinct tissue-specific transcriptional activities. In addition, the differential Fc gamma RIII-A/B gene activation can be regulated by enhancer elements located in the more upstream and intron regions. Transcription initiation in NK cells occurs also outside the normal promoter region by a second independent Fc gamma RIII-A promoter. Analysis of the additional Fc gamma RIIIa2-4 transcripts suggests the expression of novel, as yet unknown Fc gamma RIII receptor isoforms on NK cells.