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Reviewed September 2009

What is the official name of the LAMB3 gene?

The official name of this gene is “laminin, beta 3.”

LAMB3 is the gene's official symbol. The LAMB3 gene is also known by other names, listed below.

Read more about gene names and symbols on the About page.

What is the normal function of the LAMB3 gene?

The LAMB3 gene provides instructions for making one part (subunit) of a protein called laminin 332 (formerly known as laminin 5). This protein is made up of three subunits, called alpha, beta, and gamma. The LAMB3 gene carries instructions for the beta subunit; the alpha and gamma subunits are produced from other genes.

Laminins are a group of proteins that regulate cell growth, cell movement (motility), and the attachment of cells to one another (adhesion). They are also involved in the formation and organization of basement membranes, which are thin, sheet-like structures that separate and support cells in many tissues. Laminin 332 has a particularly important role in the basement membrane that underlies the top layer of skin (the epidermis). This membrane gives strength and resiliency to the skin and creates an additional barrier between the body and its surrounding environment. Laminin 332 is a major component of fibers called anchoring filaments, which connect the two layers of the basement membrane and help hold the skin together.

Studies suggest that laminin 332 also has several other functions. This protein appears to be important for wound healing. Additionally, researchers have proposed roles for laminin 332 in the clear outer covering of the eye (the cornea) and in the development of tooth enamel.

Does the LAMB3 gene share characteristics with other genes?

The LAMB3 gene belongs to a family of genes called LAM (laminins).


How are changes in the LAMB3 gene related to health conditions?

junctional epidermolysis bullosa - caused by mutations in the LAMB3 gene

More than 80 mutations in the LAMB3 gene have been identified in people with junctional epidermolysis bullosa (JEB). The more severe form of the disease, known as Herlitz JEB, usually results from mutations that severely disrupt the production of functional laminin 332. Most of these mutations lead to a premature stop signal in the instructions for making the beta subunit of laminin 332, which prevents the assembly of this protein. Without laminin 332, the epidermis is only weakly connected to the underlying layers of skin. Friction or other minor trauma (such as rubbing or scratching) can cause the skin layers to separate, leading to the formation of blisters. Infants with Herlitz JEB develop widespread blistering that causes life-threatening complications.

Other LAMB3 gene mutations cause the milder form of junctional epidermolysis bullosa, non-Herlitz JEB. Some of these mutations alter single protein building blocks (amino acids) in the beta subunit of laminin 332. Others add or delete a small number of amino acids in the beta subunit or change the way the gene's instructions are used to make the subunit. The genetic changes responsible for non-Herlitz JEB usually lead to the production of a laminin 332 protein that retains some of its function. Affected individuals experience blistering, but it may be limited to the hands, feet, knees, and elbows and often improves after the newborn period.

Genetics Home Reference provides information about amelogenesis imperfecta, which is also associated with changes in the LAMB3 gene.

Where is the LAMB3 gene located?

Cytogenetic Location: 1q32

Molecular Location on chromosome 1: base pairs 209,614,869 to 209,652,474

The LAMB3 gene is located on the long (q) arm of chromosome 1 at position 32.


More precisely, the LAMB3 gene is located from base pair 209,614,869 to base pair 209,652,474 on chromosome 1.


Where can I find additional information about LAMB3?

You and your healthcare professional may find the following resources about LAMB3 helpful.


What other names do people use for the LAMB3 gene or gene products?

  • BM600-125KDA
  • FLJ99565
  • kalinin-140kDa
  • kalinin B1 chain
  • LAM5, beta-3 subunit
  • laminin 5, beta-3 subunit
  • laminin B1k chain
  • laminin B3
  • laminin, beta-3
  • laminin, beta 3 precursor
  • laminin S B3 chain
  • LAMNB1
  • nicein-125kDa

Where can I find general information about genes?

The Handbook provides basic information about genetics in clear language.

These links provide additional genetics resources that may be useful.

What glossary definitions help with understanding LAMB3?

acids ; amelogenesis ; basal lamina ; basement membrane ; basement membranes ; cell ; cornea ; enamel ; epidermis ; gene ; hemidesmosome ; keratinocyte ; precursor ; protein ; subunit ; trauma


See also Understanding Medical Terminology.

References (10 links)



Reviewed: September 2009
Published: September 1, 2015