Description
This gene encodes a cell surface membrane protein of the immunoglobulin superfamily. This protein is expressed inpro-B-cells and is thought to play a role in their differentiation. In mice, expression of this gene is inducedin the thymus when anti-CD3 antibodies are injected and large numbers of thymocytes undergo apoptosis. Micedeficient for this gene bred on a BALB/c background developed dilated cardiomyopathy and died from congestiveheart failure. These studies suggest that this gene product may also be important in T cell function andcontribute to the prevention of autoimmune diseases