Automated description from the Alliance of Genome Resources (Release 7.0.0)
Predicted to enable several functions, including MHC class II protein complex binding activity; peptide antigen binding activity; and protein homodimerization activity. Involved in learning or memory; negative regulation of cell differentiation; and sensory perception of smell. Acts upstream of or within several processes, including antigen processing and presentation of exogenous protein antigen via MHC class Ib, TAP-dependent; cellular response to iron(III) ion; and multicellular organismal-level iron ion homeostasis. Located in external side of plasma membrane. Is expressed in several structures, including central nervous system; early conceptus; genitourinary system; hemolymphoid system gland; and retina. Used to study hemochromatosis. Human ortholog(s) of this gene implicated in arthritis; familial visceral amyloidosis; immunodeficiency 43; and inflammatory bowel disease. Orthologous to human B2M (beta-2-microglobulin).