This gene encodes a member of the signaling lymphocytic activation molecule family. May play a role in the immune response. The encoded protein is a cell surface molecule that consists of two extracellular immunoglobulin domains, a transmembrane domain and a short cytoplasmic tail that lacks the signal transduction motifs found in other family members. Alternative splicing results in multiple transcript variants. Expression is predominantly restricted in hematopoietic tissues. Expressed in heart, spleen, liver, intestine, muscle and testis. Expressed in immune cells, including monocytes, dendritic, B- and T-cells. No expression was seen in peripheral blood leukocytes. Expressed in the leukocyte cell line THP1-macrophage.