vab-1 encodes an ephrin receptor; during development, vab-1 activity is required for neural and epithelial morphogenesis as well as for proper axon targeting and neuronal cell migration; in addition, VAB-1 functions as a major sperm protein receptor in a sperm-sensing control mechanism that regulates oocyte meiotic maturation; VAB-1::GFP reporters are expressed in neuronal cells and in oocytes and sheath cells of the proximal gonad.
Enables ephrin receptor activity and protein domain specific binding activity. Involved in several processes, including cell development; embryonic morphogenesis; and regulation of axon guidance. Located in axon and plasma membrane. Expressed in several structures, including hypodermal cell; neuroblasts; neurons; oocyte; and somatic nervous system. Human ortholog(s) of this gene implicated in several diseases, including Alzheimer's disease; aortic dissection; cataract 6 multiple types; and gastrointestinal system cancer (multiple). Is an ortholog of several human genes including EPHB1 (EPH receptor B1); EPHB2 (EPH receptor B2); and EPHB3 (EPH receptor B3).