Kin of IRRE-like protein 3 (KIRREL3)

Kin of IRRE-like protein 3 (KIRREL3) is a single-pass transmembrane cell-adhesion protein in the immunoglobulin superfamily, characterized by five extracellular Ig domains and an intracellular PDZ-binding motif. It plays a critical role in directing the formation and specification of synapses in the developing brain, especially in target-selective wiring such as hippocampal mossy fiber synapses. KIRREL3 is also expressed in podocytes of the kidney, where it is involved in glomerular filtration processes. It typically mediates homophilic cell adhesion, facilitating stabilization of synaptic structures and axon targeting through trans-cellular interactions. Mutations or aberrant splicing of KIRREL3 are implicated in a range of neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism spectrum disorders and intellectual disability, highlighting its essential function in brain connectivity and cognitive processes. The gene produces several alternatively spliced isoforms with either secreted or transmembrane forms, and rare isoforms generate detectable protein variants in the brain.

Other names

NEPH2KIAA1867KIRREMRD4PRO4502kin of IRRE-like protein 3kin of IRRE like 3kin of irregular chiasm-like protein 3nephrin-like protein 2nephrin-like 2