CD3g

CD3g refers to the gamma chain of the CD3 complex, the product of the human CD3G gene. It contains an extracellular immunoglobulin-like domain, a single transmembrane region with an acidic residue that stabilizes association with the T cell receptor, and a cytoplasmic ITAM that couples antigen engagement to Lck and ZAP70 dependent phosphorylation. CD3g typically forms a heterodimer with CD3d, and loss of either partner prevents surface TCR-CD3 expression. CD3G defects therefore block T cell development and produce combined immunodeficiency. Because of its T lineage restriction, CD3g, together with CD3d and CD3e, is routinely used for T cell immunophenotyping.