Fam167b, a member of the FAM167 gene family, along with FAM167A, is evolutionarily conserved and not homologous to other annotated genes. The protein it encodes, DIORA-2, is characterized by a high content of intrinsic disorder. However, its exact function, associated pathways, and overall biological importance are yet to be fully elucidated. Genetic models could potentially be valuable in further exploring its functions [1].

The FAM167A-BLK locus has been associated with several rheumatic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and Sjögren's syndrome. Autoimmune risk genotypes within this locus lead to increased expression of FAM167A. FAM167B was cloned from human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). While the abstract focuses more on FAM167A, FAM167B is part of the same gene family with similar properties [1].

In conclusion, although the specific biological functions of Fam167b are still being explored, as part of the FAM167 gene family associated with rheumatic diseases, it holds potential significance in understanding the pathogenesis of these diseases. Further in-vivo studies using gene knockout (KO) or conditional knockout (CKO) mouse models could provide more insights into its role in these disease conditions [1].

References:

1. Mentlein, L, Thorlacius, G E, Meneghel, L, Espinosa, A, Wahren-Herlenius, M. 2018. The rheumatic disease-associated FAM167A-BLK locus encodes DIORA-1, a novel disordered protein expressed highly in bronchial epithelium and alveolar macrophages. In Clinical and experimental immunology, 193, 167-177. doi:10.1111/cei.13138. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29663334/