SIGLEC7

SIGLEC7 (Sialic acid-binding Ig-like lectin 7) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the SIGLEC7 gene. It is a member of the SIGLEC (Sialic acid-binding Ig-like lectin) family, which are cell surface proteins that bind sialic acid residues and are involved in the immune response and inflammation.

Function[edit | edit source]

SIGLEC7 is expressed predominantly in natural killer cells and monocytes, and is involved in the regulation of these cells' functions. It has been shown to inhibit natural killer cell cytotoxicity and cytokine production, and to promote monocyte survival and proliferation. SIGLEC7 recognizes and binds to certain types of sialylated glycans on the cell surface, which can modulate the immune response.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Alterations in SIGLEC7 expression have been associated with various diseases. For example, decreased expression of SIGLEC7 has been observed in chronic lymphocytic leukemia and acute myeloid leukemia, suggesting a potential role in the pathogenesis of these diseases. Furthermore, SIGLEC7 has been implicated in the regulation of immune responses in cancer, autoimmune diseases, and infectious diseases.

Research[edit | edit source]

Research into SIGLEC7 is ongoing, with studies investigating its role in disease pathogenesis and its potential as a therapeutic target. For example, targeting SIGLEC7 with specific antibodies or ligands could potentially modulate immune responses in diseases such as cancer and autoimmune diseases.