NK cells from AML patients display low levels of cell surface NCR expression, which is associated with impaired cytotoxicity.24,25 Conversely, higher levels of NKp30 and NKp46 on the cell surface have been linked to better outcomes.26,27 Downregulation of other activating receptors, including DNAM-1, NKG2C and 2B428–30 and upregulation of inhibitory receptors, such as NKG2A,28,31 on the surface of NK cells from AML patients also contribute to the low cytotoxicity and IFN-γ secretion levels of these cells.32 The gene discussed is CD226; the disease is acute myeloid leukemia.