bli-3 encodes an NADPH oxidases of the dual oxidase (DUOX) variety that contains an N-terminal peroxidase domain, two central calmodulin-binding EF hands, and a C-terminal superoxide-generating NADPH-oxidase domain; BLI-3 is required for dityrosine cross-linking of collagen, and thus for cuticular integrity; BLI-3 is thought to use cytosolic NADPH to generate reactive oxygen, which then drives the peroxidase ectodomain to cross-link free tyrosine in collagen; BLI-3 is expressed exclusively in hypodermal cells at low levels, with peaks of expression corresponding to collagen/cuticle biosynthesis.
Enables NAD(P)H oxidase H2O2-forming activity; heme binding activity; and peroxidase activity. Involved in several processes, including cuticle development involved in collagen and cuticulin-based cuticle molting cycle; defense response to other organism; and post-embryonic development. Located in plasma membrane. Expressed in hypodermis; intestine; and neurons. Used to study phenylketonuria. Human ortholog(s) of this gene implicated in cholera; inflammatory bowel disease (multiple); and thyroid dyshormonogenesis 6. Is an ortholog of human DUOX2 (dual oxidase 2).