The protein encoded by this gene is a member of the transmembrane 4 superfamily, also known as the tetraspanin family. Most of these members are cell-surface proteins that are characterized by the presence of four hydrophobic domains. The proteins mediate signal transduction events that play a role in the regulation of cell development, activation, growth and motility. This encoded protein is a cell surface glycoprotein that is known to complex with integrins. This gene is expressed in different carcinomas. The use of alternate polyadenylation sites has been found for this gene.TSPAN8 (Tetraspanin 8) is a Protein Coding gene. Diseases associated with TSPAN8 include Autosomal Recessive Nonsyndromic Deafness 3. Among its related pathways are Extracellular vesicle-mediated signaling in recipient cells. An important paralog of this gene is CD9.