Predicted to enable cell-cell adhesion mediator activity; signaling receptor activity; and virus receptor activity. Involved in neural retina development; photoreceptor cell maintenance; and spermatogenesis. Located in several cellular components, including acrosomal membrane; photoreceptor inner segment; and photoreceptor outer segment. Is expressed in several structures, including alimentary system; brain; early conceptus; eye; and reproductive system. Orthologous to human BSG (basigin (Ok blood group)).
MGI Description
PHENOTYPE: Most homozygous null mutants die around the time of implantation. Half of the survivors die prior to 1 month of age from interstitial pneumonia. The remaining mice are small, sterile, have retinal abnormalities, and perform poorly in behavioral tests. [provided by MGI curators]