This gene encodes a serum protein found in association with the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I heavy chain on the surface of nearly all nucleated cells. The protein has a predominantly beta-pleated sheet structure that can form amyloid fibrils in some pathological conditions. A mutation in this gene has been shown to result in hypercatabolic hypoproteinemia.[provided by RefSeq, Sep 2009].
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