The dpy-2 gene encodes an unusual cuticular collagen that is required for maintaining the normal body length of the animal in later larval stages; dpy-2 interacts with other cuticular collagens such as dpy-10 and sqt-1, and suppresses mutations in glp-1, mup-1, and emb-5.
Predicted to be a structural constituent of collagen and cuticulin-based cuticle. Involved in cuticle development involved in collagen and cuticulin-based cuticle molting cycle; post-embryonic body morphogenesis; and regulation of growth. Predicted to be part of collagen trimer. Expressed in head neurons and pharynx. Used to study skin disease.