Plays a central role in cell adhesion in hematopoietic cells (, ). Acts by activating the integrin beta-1-3 (ITGB1, ITGB2 and ITGB3) (By similarity). Required for integrin-mediated platelet adhesion and leukocyte adhesion to endothelial cells . Required for activation of integrin beta-2 (ITGB2) in polymorphonuclear granulocytes (PMNs) (By similarity).
Isoform 2 may act as a repressor of NF-kappa-B and apoptosis.
Subcellular locations: Cell projection, Podosome
Present in the F-actin surrounding ring structure of podosomes, which are specialized adhesion structures of hematopoietic cells.
Highly expressed in lymph node. Expressed in thymus, spleen and leukocytes. Weakly expressed in placenta, small intestine, stomach, testis and lung. Overexpressed in B-cell malignancies.