BPI fold containing family A member 3 (BPIFA3)

BPI fold containing family A member 3 (BPIFA3) is a secreted protein encoded by the *BPIFA3* gene in humans. It is a member of the BPI fold/LBP/PLUNC superfamily, which is characterized by a BPI fold structure that forms apolar binding pockets for hydrophobic and amphipathic molecules. BPIFA3 is very highly expressed in the human testis and sperm, with little or no expression in other tissues. Its precise biological function is unknown, but it is predicted—based on family membership and gene similarity—to have lipid or lipopolysaccharide binding activity and may have a putative role in host defense against bacteria at mucosal surfaces. There is no confirmed data about BPIFA3 serving as a drug target, and no drugs are known to interact directly with it. Limited association studies have linked its gene expression to otitis media susceptibility in children; otherwise, there is little evidence implicating BPIFA3 in therapeutic targeting or disease processes[1][5][7][8]. **Note:** Little direct functional or pharmacological data exists for BPIFA3, and it is not currently considered a receptor or direct therapeutic target. Its main scientific relevance relates to gene expression studies and basic biological inquiry.

Other names

SPLUNC3C20orf71BPI fold-containing family A member 3BA49G10.4Short palate, lung and nasal epithelium carcinoma-associated protein 3Short long palate, lung and nasal epithelium carcinoma associated 3Chromosome 20 open reading frame 71