This gene encodes a member of the CD1 family of
transmembrane glycoproteins, which are structurally related to the
major histocompatibility complex (MHC) proteins and form
heterodimers with beta-2-microglobulin. The CD1 proteins mediate
the presentation of primarily lipid and glycolipid antigens of self
or microbial origin to T cells. The human genome contains five CD1
family genes organized in a cluster on chromosome 1. The CD1 family
members are thought to differ in their cellular localization and
specificity for particular lipid ligands. The protein encoded by
this gene localizes to late endosomes and lysosomes via a
tyrosine-based motif in the cytoplasmic tail, and requires
vesicular acidification to bind lipid antigens. [provided by
RefSeq].
