Plays an important role in integrin-mediated signaling and functions both in regulating cell migration and immune responses. Promotes formation of focal adhesion complexes, activation of the protein kinase PTK2/FAK1 and subsequent phosphorylation of MAPK1 and MAPK3. Promotes production of pro-inflammatory cytokines by monocytes and macrophages. Plays an important role in modulating inflammation and T-cell-mediated immune responses. Promotes axon growth in the embryonic olfactory bulb. Promotes attachment, spreading and dendrite outgrowth in melanocytes.
Subcellular locations: Cell membrane
Detected in a punctate pattern on the cell membrane of basal and supra-basal skin keratinocytes.
Detected in skin keratinocytes and on endothelial cells from skin blood vessels (at protein level). Expressed in fibroblasts, keratinocytes, melanocytes, placenta, testis, ovary, spleen, brain, spinal chord, lung, heart, adrenal gland, lymph nodes, thymus, intestine and kidney.