Signaling lymphocytic activation molecule family member 8 (SLAMF8) (SLAMF8)

Signaling lymphocytic activation molecule family member 8 (SLAMF8), also known as BLAME or CD353, is a transmembrane glycoprotein belonging to the SLAM family of receptors within the immunoglobulin superfamily (UniProt Q9P0V8). It is predominantly expressed on the surface of hematopoietic cells, including B-lineage cells, dendritic cells, and macrophages, where it functions as a regulator of immune cell activation and signaling (NCBI Gene ID: 56833). Unlike other SLAM family members, SLAMF8 lacks immunoreceptor tyrosine-based switch motifs (ITSMs) in its cytoplasmic domain, instead modulating immune responses through the regulation of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) signaling and Nox2 activity in macrophages (PubMed: 25637025). In clinical research, SLAMF8 has emerged as a significant player in oncology and inflammatory diseases; for instance, its high expression in gliomas is associated with increased macrophage infiltration and poor patient survival (PubMed: 32854143). It is also implicated in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune conditions due to its role in macrophage polarization (PubMed: 31204195). While there are currently no FDA-approved drugs targeting SLAMF8, it is being explored as a potential target for immunotherapy to modulate the tumor microenvironment or suppress chronic inflammation (PubMed: 34150586).

Other names

BLAMECD353SBBI42B-lymphocyte activator moleculeSLAM family member 8

Modulation of SLAMF8-mediated signaling to regulate macrophage polarization and inflammatory cytokine production.