This gene encodes a cell surface receptor expressed on natural killer (NK) cells (and some T cells) that mediate non-major histocompatibility complex (MHC) restricted killing. The interaction between NK-cell and target cells via this receptor is thought to modulate NK-cell cytolytic activity. Alternatively spliced transcript variants encoding different isoforms have been found for this gene.[provided by RefSeq, Oct 2009].
Kis-Toth, Tsokos: "Engagement of SLAMF2/CD48 prolongs the time frame of effective T cell activation by supporting mature dendritic cell survival." in: Journal of immunology (Baltimore, Md. : 1950), Vol. 192, Issue 9, pp. 4436-42, (2014) (PubMed).