Background of the antigen
SLAMF7 contains one Ig-like C2-type (immunoglobulin-like) domain. Isoform 1 mediates NK cell activation through a SAP-independent extracellular signal-regulated ERK-mediated pathway. It may play a role in lymphocyte adhesion. Isoform 3 does not mediate any activation. SAP can bind the cytoplasmic tail of isoform 1 when phosphorylated in the presence of Fyn (in vitro). SLAMF7 is expressed in spleen, lymph node, peripheral blood leukocytes, bone marrow, small intestine, stomach, appendix, lung and trachea. Expression was detected in NK cells, activated B-cells, NK-cell line but not in promyelocytic, B-, or T-cell lines. The isoform 3 is expressed at much lower level than isoform 1. There are three named isoforms.