LAMA3 gene encodes alpha-3 subunit of laminin-5, which belongs to the laminin family and it is an important component of basement membrane zone that attaches the epidermis to the dermis. The laminins are a family of heterotrimeric proteins involved in cellular adhesion, cellular migration and tissue morphogenesis during embryonic development. They play an important role in signal transduction, basement membrane formation and associated functions. Mutations in LAMA3 gene is associated with Herlitz type junctional epidermolysis bullosa and laryngoonychocutaneous syndrome.
