SIGLEC6

SIGLEC6 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the SIGLEC6 gene. It is a member of the SIGLEC (Sialic acid-binding immunoglobulin-like lectins) family of proteins, which are known to play a role in the immune system's response to pathogens.

Structure

The SIGLEC6 protein is a type I transmembrane protein that has an extracellular region containing two immunoglobulin domains and a sialic acid-binding lectin domain. The intracellular region of the protein contains an immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibitory motif (ITIM), which is involved in the inhibition of cellular responses.

Function

SIGLEC6 is expressed in various tissues, including the placenta and immune cells such as B cells and natural killer cells. It is known to bind to sialic acids, which are sugars found on the surface of cells. This binding can trigger a signal that inhibits the activation of the immune cell, preventing an overactive immune response.

In the placenta, SIGLEC6 is thought to play a role in the interaction between the mother's immune system and the developing fetus. It may help to prevent the mother's immune system from attacking the fetus, which is partially foreign due to the father's genetic contribution.

Clinical significance

Alterations in the function of SIGLEC6 have been implicated in several diseases. For example, overexpression of SIGLEC6 has been observed in ovarian cancer, suggesting that it may play a role in the development or progression of this disease. Additionally, mutations in the SIGLEC6 gene have been associated with obesity and type 2 diabetes.

Research

Research is ongoing to better understand the role of SIGLEC6 in health and disease. This includes studies to investigate its function in the immune system and its potential as a target for therapeutic interventions.

See also

• SIGLEC
• Immunoglobulin
• Sialic acid
• Immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibitory motif

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