Anti-SEMA7A

This gene encodes a member of the semaphorin family of proteins. The encoded preproprotein is proteolytically processed to generate the mature glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored membrane glycoprotein. The encoded protein is found on activated lymphocytes and erythrocytes and may be involved in immunomodulatory and neuronal processes. The encoded protein carries the John Milton Hagen (JMH) blood group antigens. Mutations in this gene may be associated with reduced bone mineral density (BMD). Alternative splicing results in multiple transcript variants, at least one of which encodes an isoform that is proteolytically processed. Protein function: 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. [The UniProt Consortium]