The bli-1 gene encodes an unusual cuticular collagen that is required for proper strut formation within the unique medial layer of the adult cuticle; bli-1 interacts genetically with other cuticular collagens such as bli-2 and rol-1, and may be processed for secretion by BLI-4, a Kex2/subtilisin serine endoproteinase; consistent with its role in adult cuticle formation, bli-1 mRNA is highly expressed only during the L4 larval stage.
Predicted to be a structural constituent of collagen and cuticulin-based cuticle. Involved in cuticle development involved in collagen and cuticulin-based cuticle molting cycle. Located in medial layer of collagen and cuticulin-based cuticle extracellular matrix. Expressed in hyp7 syncytium and seam cell. Human ortholog(s) of this gene implicated in Stickler syndrome and multiple epiphyseal dysplasia 6. Is an ortholog of human COL27A1 (collagen type XXVII alpha 1 chain) and COL9A1 (collagen type IX alpha 1 chain).