Leukosialin also known as sialophorin or CD43 (cluster of differentiation 43) is a transmembrane cell surface protein that in humans is encoded by the SPN (sialophorin) gene. Sialophorin (leukosialin) is a major sialoglycoprotein on the surface of human T lymphocytes, monocytes, granulocytes, and some B lymphocytes, which appears to be important for immune function and may be part of a physiologic ligand-receptor complex involved in T-cell activation.[supplied by OMIM]. Publication Note: This RefSeq record includes a subset of the publications that are available for this gene. Please see the Gene record to access additional publications.
One of the major glycoproteins of thymocytes and T lymphocytes. Plays a role in the physicochemical properties of the T-cell surface and in lectin binding. Presents carbohydrate ligands to selectins. Has an extended rodlike structure that could protrude above the glycocalyx of the cell and allow multiple glycan chains to be accessible for binding. Is a counter receptor for SN/Siglec-1 (By similarity). During T-cell activation is actively removed from the T-cell-APC (antigen-presenting cell) contact site thus suggesting a negative regulatory role in adaptive immune response (By similarity).