Probably contributes to terminal cornification . Associated with keratinocyte activation, proliferation and keratinization . Required for maintenance of corneocytes and keratin filaments in suprabasal keratinocytes in the epidermis of the ear, potentially via moderation of expression and localization of keratins and their partner proteins (By similarity). Plays a role in the establishment of the epidermal barrier on plantar skin (By similarity).
Subcellular locations: Cytoplasm
Expressed in the upper spinous and granular suprabasal layers of normal adult epidermal tissues from most body sites including thigh, breast nipple, foot sole, penile shaft and axilla. Not present in foreskin, squamous metaplasias and carcinomas. Expression in hypertrophic and keloid scars begins in the deepest suprabasal layer. Weakly expressed in normal gingiva and tongue, however expression is induced in benign keratoses of lingual mucosa and in mild-to-moderate oral dysplasia with orthokeratinization.