Acidic Mammalian Chitinase (CHIA) Human Recombinant Protein

The protein encoded by this gene degrades chitin, which is found in the cell wall of most fungi as well as in arthropods and some nematodes. The encoded protein can also stimulate interleukin 13 expression, and variations in this gene can lead to asthma susceptibility. Several transcript variants encoding a few different isoforms have been found for this gene. [provided by RefSeq, Apr 2012]

CHIA: Degrades chitin and chitotriose. May participate in the defense against nematodes, fungi and other pathogens. Plays a role in T-helper cell type 2 (Th2) immune response. Contributes to the response to IL-13 and inflammation in response to IL-13. Stimulates chemokine production by pulmonary epithelial cells. Protects lung epithelial cells against apoptosis and promotes phosphorylation of AKT1. Its function in the inflammatory response and in protecting cells against apoptosis is inhibited by allosamidin, suggesting that the function of this protein depends on carbohydrate binding. Belongs to the glycosyl hydrolase 18 family. Chitinase class II subfamily. 3 isoforms of the human protein are produced by alternative splicing.

Protein type: Hydrolase; Secreted; Secreted, signal peptide; Carbohydrate Metabolism - amino sugar and nucleotide sugar; EC 3.2.1.14

Chromosomal Location of Human Ortholog: 1p13.2

Cellular Component: extracellular space; cytoplasm

Molecular Function: lysozyme activity; chitin binding; chitinase activity; carbohydrate binding; kinase binding

Biological Process: response to fungus; polysaccharide catabolic process; production of molecular mediator of acute inflammatory response; apoptosis; digestion; cell wall chitin metabolic process; immune response; chitin catabolic process; chitin metabolic process