| 
					 Full name  | 
				
					 Programmed cell death 1  | 
			
| 
					 Synonyms  | 
				
					 PD1, PD-1, CD279, SLEB2, hPD-1, hPD-l  | 
			
| 
					 Swissprot  | 
				
					 Q15116  | 
			
| 
					 Gene Accession  | 
				
					 NP_005009  | 
			
| 
					 Background  | 
				
					 This gene encodes a cell surface membrane protein of the immunoglobulin superfamily. This protein is expressed in pro-B-cells and is thought to play a role in their differentiation. In mice, expression of this gene is induced in the thymus when anti-CD3 antibodies are injected and large numbers of thymocytes undergo apoptosis. Mice deficient for this gene bred on a BALB/c background developed dilated cardiomyopathy and died from congestive heart failure. These studies suggest that this gene product may also be important in T cell function and contribute to the prevention of autoimmune diseases.  | 
			
