This gene encodes UDP-GalNAc transferase 3, a member of the GalNAc-transferases family. This family transfers an N-acetyl galactosamine to the hydroxyl group of a serine or threonine residue in the first step of O-linked oligosaccharide biosynthesis. Individual GalNAc-transferases have distinct activities and initiation of O-glycosylation is regulated by a repertoire of GalNAc-transferases. The protein encoded by this gene is highly homologous to other family members, however the enzymes have different substrate specificities. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2008].