This gene encodes a member of the basic leucine zipper domain family of transcription factors. The encoded protein is preferentially expressed in the retina and is necessary for rod photoreceptor development. Alternative splicing results in multiple transcript variants. [provided by RefSeq, Dec 2012
Enables iron ion binding activity. Involved in innate immune response; positive regulation of cold-induced thermogenesis; and siderophore transport. Acts upstream of or within extrinsic apoptotic signaling pathway in absence of ligand; response to bacterium; and response to virus. Located in extrace
llular space. Is expressed in several structures, including genitourinary system; gut; liver; lung; and spleen. Human ortholog(s) of this gene implicated in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma and urinary tract infection. Orthologous to human LCN2 (lipocalin 2). [provided by Alliance of Genome Resources, Apr 2025]
Enables BMP binding activity and transforming growth factor beta binding activity. Involved in several processes, including BMP signaling pathway; excitatory chemical synaptic transmission; and synapse organization. Is active in extracellular region. Is expressed in several structures, including ali
mentary system; embryo mesenchyme; genitourinary system; neural ectoderm; and skeletal system. Human ortholog(s) of this gene implicated in megalocornea. Orthologous to human CHRDL1 (chordin like 1). [provided by Alliance of Genome Resources, Jul 2025]