The WM53 monoclonal antibody specifically recognizes CD33 which is also known as Sialic acid-binding Ig-like lectin 3 (Siglec-3) or gp67. CD33 is a 67 kDa type I transmembrane glycoprotein that is variably expressed on myeloid progenitors, monocytes, macrophages, dendritic cells, neutrophils, basophils, mast cells, and on some activated T cells and NK cells. Normal lymphocytes, platelets, erythrocytes and pluripotent hematopoietic stem cells do not express the CD33 antigen. This glycoprotein reportedly functions as a sialic acid-dependent cell adhesion molecule and this function can be modulated by endogenous sialoglycoconjugates when CD33 is expressed on the membrane.