BCAM

This gene encodes Lutheran blood group glycoprotein, a member of the immunoglobulin superfamily and a receptor for the extracellular matrix protein, laminin. The protein contains five extracellular immunoglobulin domains, a single transmembrane domain, and a short C-terminal cytoplasmic tail. This protein may play a role in epithelial cell cancer and in vaso-occlusion of red blood cells in sickle cell disease. Polymorphisms in this gene define some of the antigens in the Lutheran system and also the Auberger system. Inactivating variants of this gene result in the recessive Lutheran null phenotype, Lu(a-b-), of the Lutheran blood group. Two transcript variants encoding different isoforms have been found for this gene. [provided by RefSeq, May 2012]

A protein domain is a distinct structural or functional region within a protein that can evolve, function, and exist independently of the rest of the protein chain. These domains in human BCAM often fold into stable, three-dimensional structures and are associated with specific biological functions, such as binding to DNA, other proteins, or small molecules.

The most significant associations for this gene, including commonly observed domains, pathway involvement, and functional highlights based on current data.

Locations within the cell where the protein is known or predicted to be active, providing insight into its function and cellular context.

Describes the biological processes, cellular components, and molecular functions associated with the human BCAM gene, providing context for its role in the cell.