This gene encodes a member of the lysyl oxidase gene family. The prototypic member of the family is essential to the biogenesis of connective tissue，encoding an extracellular copper-dependent amine oxidase that catalyses the first step in the formation of crosslinks in collagens and elastin. A highly conserved amino acid sequence at the C-terminus end appears to be sufficient for amine oxidase activity，suggesting that each family member may retain this function. The N-terminus is poorly conserved and may impart additional roles in developmental regulation，senescence，tumor suppression，cell growth control，and chemotaxis to each member of the family. [provided by RefSeq，Jul 2008]