The SIGLEC6 gene to 19q13.3, which is where the CD33 gene is located. Putative adhesion molecule that mediates sialic-acid dependent binding to cells. Binds to alpha-2,6-linked sialic acid. The sialic acid recognition site may be masked by cis interactions with sialic acids on the same cell surface. Expressed at high levels in placenta (cyto- and syncytiotrophoblastic cells) and at lower levels in spleen, peripheral blood leukocytes (predominantly B-cells) and small intestine.