Automated description from the Alliance of Genome Resources (Release 7.0.0)
Enables RNA binding activity. A structural constituent of cytoskeleton and structural constituent of eye lens. Involved in intermediate filament organization and positive regulation of gene expression. Acts upstream of or within several processes, including astrocyte differentiation; cellular response to type II interferon; and lens fiber cell development. Located in several cellular components, including cell leading edge; intermediate filament; and phagocytic vesicle. Is expressed in several structures, including alimentary system; brain; genitourinary system; heart; and sensory organ. Human ortholog(s) of this gene implicated in atherosclerosis; autoimmune disease (multiple); and cataract 30. Orthologous to human VIM (vimentin).