KIRREL3
Function
Synaptic adhesion molecule required for the formation of target-specific synapses. Required for formation of target-specific synapses at hippocampal mossy fiber synapses. Required for formation of mossy fiber filopodia, the synaptic structures connecting dentate granule and GABA neurons. Probably acts as a homophilic adhesion molecule that promotes trans-cellular interactions and stabilize mossy fiber filipodia contact and subsequent synapse formation. Required for the coalescence of vomeronasal sensory neuron axons. May be involved in the hematopoietic supportive capacity of stroma cells; the secreted extracellular domain is directly responsible for supporting hematopoietic stem cells.
Involvement in disease
A chromosomal aberration involving KIRREL3 and CDH15 is found in a patient with severe intellectual disability and dysmorphic facial features. Translocation t(11;16)(q24.2;q24).
Post-translational modifications
Undergoes proteolysis by a metalloprotease and gives rise to a soluble form.
Sequence Similarities
Belongs to the immunoglobulin superfamily.
Tissue Specificity
Expressed in fetal and adult brain (PubMed:19012874). Also expressed in kidney, specifically in podocytes of kidney glomeruli (PubMed:12424224). Also expressed in skeletal muscle (PubMed:25488023).
Cellular localization
- Cell membrane
- Single-pass type I membrane protein
- Processed kin of IRRE-like protein 3
- Secreted
Alternative names
KIAA1867, NEPH2, UNQ5923/PRO4502/PRO19814, KIRREL3, Kin of IRRE-like protein 3, Kin of irregular chiasm-like protein 3, Nephrin-like protein 2