Engelsk definition
A cell adhesion molecule that is expressed on the membranes of nearly all EPITHELIAL CELLS, especially at the junctions between intestinal epithelial cells and intraepithelial LYMPHOCYTES. It also is expressed on the surface of ADENOCARCINOMA and epithelial tumor cells. It may function in the MUCOSA through homophilic interactions to provide a barrier against infection. It also regulates the proliferation and differentiation of EMBRYONIC STEM CELLS.