ADAMTS17 belongs to the ADAMTS family of zinc dependent proteases. This family is involved in several biological processes such as connective tissue structure, cancer, angiogenesis and cell migration. While the specific function of ADAMTS17 is unknown, it has been speculated to play a role in the crystalline lens zonular formation or maintenance. This is further supported by the fact that two other ADAMTS genes, ADAMTS10 and ADAMTS18, have been implicated in the ocular diseases; Weill-Marchesani syndrome and Knobloch syndrome, respectively.
Mutations in the ADAMTS17 gene are associated with Weill-Marchesani-like syndrome, an autosomal recessive disorder characterized by myopia, ectopia lentis, spherophakia, glaucoma and short stature.