Endothelin Converting Enzyme Like Protein 1 (ECEL1)

ECEL1 encodes a member of the M13 family of endopeptidases. In general, M13 family members are zinc-containing type II integral-membrane proteins that are important regulators of neuropeptide and peptide hormone activity. This gene is expressed specifically in the central nervous system and its protein localizes predominately to the endoplasmic reticulum or, in trace amounts, to the cell surface. Disruption of this gene in mouse embryonic stem cells results in neonatal lethality due to respiratory failure shortly after birth. Based on the specific expression of this gene and the phenotype of the gene deficiency in mouse embryos, it is suggested that this protein plays a critical role in neural regulation of the respiratory system. This gene has multiple pseudogenes.