The DCC gene encodes a transmembrane protein that functions as a receptor for netrin-1, a chemoattractant for commissural axons. Hence, in the developing nervous system, upon binding to its ligand, the netrin receptor mediates the guidance of axons in neuronal growth cones towards netrin-1. It may also associate with the UNC5 protein to trigger axon repulsion. By carrying out its functions, DCC plays a key role in the development of nervous system lateralization. DCC can also act as a dependence receptor which induces cell apoptosis in the absence of its ligand. It thus functions as a tumor suppressor gene.

Mutations in the gene have been associated with Somatic Colorectal Cancer and Somatic Esophageal Carcinoma. DCC mutations have also been implicated in the neurological disorders Familial Horizontal Gaze Palsy, with Progressive Scoliosis, 2 (HGPPS2) and Mirror Movements 1 (MRMV1).  

The DCC gene, located on the long arm of chromosome 18, spans a length of 1195 kb of DNA. Its coding sequence is spread across 32 exons and it encodes a 158.4 kDa protein product composed of 1447 amino acids. The gene is expressed in a wide variety of cells in the human body, including the intestine, brain, eye and testis. At least 11 heterozygous mutations in the DCC gene have been implicated in mirror movements 1, including missense variants, deletions and premature terminations.