This gene is the human homolog of murine plunc, and like the mouse gene, is specifically expressed in the upper airways and nasopharyngeal regions. The exact biological function of this gene is not known, however, it has been suggested to be involved in inflammatory responses to irritants in the upper airways. It may also serve as a potential molecular marker for detection of micrometastasis in non-small-cell lung cancer. Multiple transcript variants resulting from alternative splicing in the 3' UTR have been detected, but the full-length nature of only three are known. [provided by RefSeq, Aug 2011].
Function: May be involved in the airway inflammatory response after exposure to irritants. May be associated with tumor progression. May play a role in innate immune responses of the upper airways.