The protein encoded by this gene belongs to the thrombospondin protein family. Thrombospondin family members are adhesive glycoproteins that mediate cell-to-cell and cell-to-matrix interactions. This protein forms a pentamer and can bind to heparin and calcium. It is involved in local signaling in the developing and adult nervous system, and it contributes to spinal sensitization and neuropathic pain states. This gene is activated during the stromal response to invasive breast cancer. It may also play a role in inflammatory responses in Alzheimer's disease. Alternative splicing results in multiple transcript variants. [provided by RefSeq, Apr 2015].