The protein encoded by this gene is expressed only in Langerhans cells which are immature dendritic cells of the epidermis and mucosa. It is localized in the Birbeck granules, organelles present in the cytoplasm of Langerhans cells and consisting of superimposed and zippered membranes. It is a C-type lectin with mannose binding specificity, and it has been proposed that mannose binding by this protein leads to internalization of antigen into Birbeck granules and providing access to a nonclassical antigen-processing pathway. Mutations in this gene result in Birbeck granules deficiency or loss of sugar binding activity. [provided by RefSeq, Aug 2010],
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Function:
Function:Calcium-dependent lectin displaying mannose-binding specificity, Induces the formation of Birbeck granules (BGs); is a potent regulator of membrane superimposition and zippering.,online information:Langerin,similarity:Contains 1 C-type lectin domain.,subcellular location:Found in Birbeck granules (BGs), which are organelles consisting of superimposed and zippered membranes.,tissue specificity:Exclusively expressed by Langerhans cells.,
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Cellular Localization:
Membrane ; Single-pass type II membrane protein . Found in Birbeck granules (BGs), which are organelles consisting of superimposed and zippered membranes.
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Tissue Expression:
Exclusively expressed by Langerhans cells. Expressed in astrocytoma and malignant ependymoma, but not in normal brain tissues.