The protein encoded by this gene is secreted into the blood, where it is cleaved by plasma kallikrein into two smaller forms. Expression of this gene has been detected only in liver, and it seems to be upregulated during surgical trauma. This gene is part of a cluster of similar genes on chromosome 3. Two transcript variants encoding different isoforms have been found for this gene. [provided by RefSeq, Oct 2009]
Forensic Context
A study in porcine skin exposed to bromine vapor demonstrated that the ITIH4 was significantly increased approximately 3.1-fold in both 10- and 20-minute exposure groups at 48 hours postexposure, identifying it as a component of significantly altered molecular signaling pathways [Rogers et al. DOI:10.1002/jbt.20383]. This transcriptional change was part of a common set of significantly altered signaling pathways identified through microarray analysis, indicating its role in the molecular response to cutaneous chemical injury.