* Produces type 1 chain linkage in glycolipids and core-3 O-glycans, but not N-linked glycoproteins.
* May be an important enzyme forming CA19-9 in colon cancer. Beyond serving as a biomarker, CA19-9 also promotes pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer (in mice).
* B3GalT5 efficiently transfers Gal to the GlcNAc of the glycolipid Lc3Cer and to the terminal GalNAc residue of the globoside Gb4.
* It may thus contribute to the formation of CA 19-9, SSEA-3 and elongated core-3 O-glycans.
* Expression is restricted to the colorectum, small intestine, stomach, and pancreas.