Human Sialic Acid Binding Ig Like Lectin 6 (SIGLEC6) Protein

Background

SIGLEC6 is a member of the sialic acid-binding immunoglobulin-like lectin family, predominantly expressed on B cells, placental trophoblasts, and certain immune cells like mast cells. It binds to sialylated glycans, including α2,6-linked sialic acids, with high affinity for sialyl Tn antigen and leptin. SIGLEC6 functions as an inhibitory receptor, containing an immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibitory motif (ITIM) in its cytoplasmic tail that downregulates cellular activation pathways upon ligand binding. It plays a role in immune modulation, promoting tolerance during pregnancy by modulating trophoblast and maternal immune interactions. Dysregulation of SIGLEC6 has been implicated in gestational disorders like preeclampsia. Recent studies suggest its involvement in mast cell-mediated allergic responses and its potential as a therapeutic target in immune and metabolic disorders.