– MEP1B (Meprin A Subunit Beta) is a Protein Coding gene. This gene encodes the beta subunit. Targeted disruption of this gene in mice affects embryonic viability, renal gene expression profiles, and distribution of the membrane-associated alpha subunit in the kidney and intestine. Meprins are cell membrane, oligomeric metalloendopeptidases composed of two distinct but evolutionarily related subunits, alpha, and beta. MEP1A is mapped to the short arm of chromosome 6 by the use of radiation and somatic cell hybrids. More specifically, it is localized between the centromere and GSTA2 in 6p11-p12. MEP1B mapped to chromosome 18, by the use of somatic cell hybrids, in 18q12.2-q12.3, proximal to the TTR/PALB gene. Diseases associated with MEP1B include Powassan Encephalitis and Deafness, Autosomal Dominant 31.