Involved in embryo development; epidermis morphogenesis; and nematode larval development. Located in cell surface. Expressed in several structures, including neuroblasts; neurons; pharynx; somatic nervous system; and vulva. Human ortholog(s) of this gene implicated in several diseases, including Hodgkin's lymphoma; cleft lip; and glucose metabolism disease (multiple). Is an ortholog of human SDC1 (syndecan 1); SDC2 (syndecan 2); and SDC4 (syndecan 4).