This gene encodes a multidomain serine protease inhibitor that contains 15 potential inhibitory domains. The inhibitor may play a role in skin and hair morphogenesis and anti-inflammatory and/or antimicrobial protection of mucous epithelia. Mutations may result in Netherton syndrome, a disorder characterized by ichthyosis, defective cornification, and atopy. Multiple transcript variants encoding different isoforms have been found for this gene. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2008]