Pattern receptor that binds to murein peptidoglycans (PGN) of Gram-positive bacteria. Has bactericidal activity towards Gram-positive bacteria. May kill Gram-positive bacteria by interfering with peptidoglycan biosynthesis. Binds also to Gram-negative bacteria, and has bacteriostatic activity towards Gram-negative bacteria. Plays a role in innate immunity.
Subcellular locations: Secreted
Detected in skin epidermis, eccrine sweat glands and ducts, mucous cells in the submandibular salivary gland, mucous cells in the throat, ciliary body epithelial cells of the eye, small intestine, colon, stomach and in mature epithelial cells of the tongue (at protein level). High expression in skin and esophagus. Expressed also to a much lesser extent in the tonsils and thymus.