Secreted cytokine-like protein . Binds to the scavenger receptor MARCO . Can also bind to pathogens including the Gram-positive bacterium L.monocytogenes, the Gram-negative bacterium P.aeruginosa, and yeast . Strongly inhibits phospholipase A2 (PLA2G1B) activity . Seems to have anti-inflammatory effects in respiratory epithelium (By similarity). Also has anti-fibrotic activity in lung . May play a role in fetal lung development and maturation . Promotes branching morphogenesis during early stages of lung development . In the pituitary, may inhibit production of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) (By similarity).
Subcellular locations: Secreted
Highly expressed in lung and trachea ( ). Detected throughout the airway epithelium in lung, with slightly higher expression in large airways . Found in lung submucosal gland acinus where it localizes to serous-like cells . Probably expressed in club cells of the bronchioles . Not detected in other tissues tested .