CD3d

CD3d, encoded by the CD3D gene, is one of four invariant subunits that assemble with the T cell receptor to form the TCR-CD3 complex. The protein carries a single extracellular immunoglobulin-like domain, a transmembrane segment with a conserved negatively charged aspartate that mediates pairing with the TCR chains, and a short cytoplasmic tail. CD3d non-covalently associates with CD3e to transmit ligand-binding events to intracellular ITAM-bearing partners. Because CD3d expression is restricted to T lineage cells, surface and intracellular CD3d staining helps discriminate T cells from NK cells. Germline CD3D mutations cause autosomal recessive T cell negative severe combined immunodeficiency.