Cell migration-inducing and hyaluronan-binding protein (CEMIP)

Mediates depolymerization of hyaluronic acid (HA) through the cell membrane-associated clathrin-coated pit endocytic pathway. Hydrolyzes high molecular weight hyaluronic acid to make an intermediate-sized product, a process that might occur through rapid vesicle endocytosis and recycling without intracytoplasmic accumulation or digestion in lysosomes.

Involved in hyaluronan catabolism in the dermis of the skin and arthritic synovium. Positively regulates epithelial- mesenchymal transition (EMT), and hence tumor cell growth, invasion and cancer dissemination.