Human SLAM Family Member 8 (SLAMF8) Protein

Background

SLAMF8 (Signaling Lymphocytic Activation Molecule Family Member 8) is a cell-surface receptor protein that is part of the SLAM (Signaling Lymphocyte Activation Molecule) family, a subgroup of the immunoglobulin (Ig) superfamily. SLAM family receptors, including SLAMF8, are involved in immune cell communication, with significant roles in immune regulation and inflammation. SLAMF8 is expressed primarily on macrophages, dendritic cells, neutrophils, and monocytes and is notable for its involvement in immune cell activation, particularly in response to infections and inflammatory stimuli. Unlike other SLAM family members, SLAMF8 does not interact with the adaptor molecule SAP (SLAM-associated protein) for signaling. Instead, it appears to have a distinctive signaling pathway, involving interactions with other signaling molecules to modulate immune responses. SLAMF8 has been implicated in the regulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, phagocytosis, and inflammatory cytokine production, which contribute to the host defense against pathogens. It plays an important role in modulating innate immune responses, helping balance pro- and anti-inflammatory signals during infection and inflammation.