Predicted to enable RNA polymerase II cis-regulatory region sequence-specific DNA binding activity and nuclear receptor activity. Predicted to be involved in cell differentiation; hormone-mediated signaling pathway; and regulation of transcription by RNA polymerase II. Located in nucleus. Expressed in several structures, including Cpaaaa; Cpaaap; Cpaapa; Cpaapp; and germ line. Human ortholog(s) of this gene implicated in several diseases, including Alzheimer's disease; carcinoma (multiple); congenital nongoitrous hypothyroidism 6; and cystic fibrosis. Is an ortholog of human PPARA (peroxisome proliferator activated receptor alpha) and THRA (thyroid hormone receptor alpha).
This gene is a member of the sauvagine/corticotropin-releasing factor/urotensin I family. It is structurally related to the corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) gene and the encoded product is an endogenous ligand for CRF type 2 receptors. In the brain it may be responsible for the effects of stress on appetite. In spite of the gene family name similarity, the product of this gene has no sequence similarity to urotensin II. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2008]
This gene encodes a type-I membrane protein that is related to beta-glucosidases. Reduced production of this protein has been observed in patients with chronic renal failure (CRF), and this may be one of the factors underlying the degenerative processes (e.g., arteriosclerosis, osteoporosis, and skin atrophy) seen in CRF. Also, mutations within this protein have been associated with ageing and bone loss. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2008]