{"symbol":"UPK1B","synonyms":["UPK1","UPIB","TSPAN20"],"name":"uroplakin 1B","description":"The protein encoded by this gene is a member of the transmembrane 4 superfamily, also known as the tetraspanin family. Most of these members are cell-surface proteins that are characterized by the presence of four hydrophobic domains. The proteins mediate signal transduction events that play a role in the regulation of cell development, activation, growth and motility. This encoded protein is found in the asymmetrical unit membrane (AUM) where it can form a complex with other transmembrane 4 superfamily proteins. It may play a role in normal bladder epithelial physiology, possibly in regulating membrane permeability of superficial umbrella cells or in stabilizing the apical membrane through AUM/cytoskeletal interactions. The use of alternate polyadenylation sites has been found for this gene. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2008]","ncbiEntrezGeneId":7348,"ncbiEntrezGeneUrl":"http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/gene/7348","proteins":[{"symbol":"UPK1B_HUMAN","href":"/api/1.0/protein/UPK1B_HUMAN"}],"hgncRootFamilies":[{"name":"Tetraspanins (TSPAN)","href":"/api/1.0/gene_family/Tetraspanins+%28TSPAN%29"}]}