CLEC5A also known as MDL1 is a member of the C-type lectin/C-type lectin-like domain (CTL/CTLD) superfamily. CLEC5A is a type II transmembrane receptor predominantly found on myeloid cells, including macrophages, neutrophils, and dendritic cells. CLEC5A serves as an immune sensor for various pathogens, recognizing and binding to specific glycan structures present on the surfaces of viruses and bacteria, such as dengue virus (DENV) and Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV). Upon pathogen binding, CLEC5A associates with the tyrosine-phosphorylated DAP12, leading to the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. CLEC5A has also emerged as a potential biomarker for M2-like macrophages in the tumor microenvironment.