lin-3 encodes a member of the EGF family of peptide growth factors that affects induction of vulval development, viability, ovulation, behavioral quiescence after stress, and male spicule development; it acts genetically upstream of its presumptive receptor let-23, and is expressed in multiple locations consistent with it acting as a localized ligand; for example, the anchor cell of the developing gonad, which induces vulval development.
Enables receptor ligand activity. Involved in several processes, including positive regulation of ovulation; positive regulation of vulval development; and reproductive process. Located in plasma membrane. Expressed in several structures, including excretory canal; germ line; hermaphrodite gonad; rectal epithelial cell; and vulF.