May provide a mechanism for modulation of the composition of the protective mucus layer related to acid secretion or the presence of bacteria and noxious agents in the lumen. Plays an important role in the cytoprotection of epithelial surfaces and are used as tumor markers in a variety of cancers. May play a role in epithelial organogenesis.
Subcellular locations: Secreted
Expressed in the regenerative zone of gastric antrum, gastric body mucosa and gastric incisura mucosa. Expressed in the deeper mucous glands of gastric antrum. Overexpressed in Helicobacter pylori infected gastric epithelium. Highly expressed in duodenal Brunner's glands, gall bladder, seminal vesicle, pancreatic centroacinar cells and ducts, and periductal glands of the common bile duct.