Semaphorin 7A, GPI membrane anchor (John Milton Hagen blood group) (SEMA7A) also known as CD108 (Cluster of Differentiation 108), is a human gene.The protein encoded by this gene binds to cell surfaces through a glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) linkage. The encoded glycoprotein is found on activated lymphocytes and erythrocytes. This protein may be involved in immunomodulatory and neuronal processes. Defects in this gene can result in loss of bone mineral density (BMD). Three transcript variants encoding different isoforms have been found for this gene.
Plays an important role in integrin-mediated signaling and functions both in regulating cell migration and immune responses. Promotes formation of focal adhesion complexes, activation of the protein kinase PTK2/FAK1 and subsequent phosphorylation of MAPK1 and MAPK3. Promotes production of proinflammatory cytokines by monocytes and macrophages. Plays an important role in modulating inflammation and T cell-mediated immune responses. Promotes axon growth in the embryonic olfactory bulb. Promotes attachment, spreading and dendrite outgrowth in melanocytes