Description

This gene encodes a non-lineage-restricted, type II transmembrane glycoprotein that synthesizes and hydrolyzes cyclic adenosine 5′-diphosphate-ribose, an intracellular calcium ion mobilizing messenger. The release of soluble protein and the ability of membrane-bound protein to become internalized indicate both extracellular and intracellular functions for the protein. This protein has an N-terminal cytoplasmic tail, a single membrane-spanning domain, and a C-terminal extracellular region with four N-glycosylation sites. Knockout mice deficient for this gene display altered humoral immune responses. In addition, knockout mice exhibit higher locomotor activity and defects in nurturing and social behaviors.