CEACAM3

CEACAM3 (Carcinoembryonic Antigen-Related Cell Adhesion Molecule 3) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the CEACAM3 gene. It is a member of the carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) gene family.

Function

CEACAM3 is an innate immune receptor that is expressed exclusively by human granulocytes. It functions as a pattern recognition receptor for bacteria and triggers an oxidative burst to eliminate the pathogens. The protein encoded by this gene is a member of the immunoglobulin superfamily. It is a cell surface glycoprotein and is highly expressed in neutrophils.

Clinical significance

Alterations in the CEACAM3 gene have been associated with susceptibility to infectious disease, particularly bacterial infections. It is also implicated in the progression of certain types of cancer, although further research is needed to fully understand its role in these diseases.

See also

• Carcinoembryonic antigen
• Granulocyte
• Neutrophil
• Infectious disease
• Cancer