The ROBO1 gene encodes a member of the Neural Cell Adhesion Molecule (NCAM) family, a subset of the Immunoglobulin superfamily (IgSF). The ROBO1 protein functions as an integral membrane receptor for SLIT1 and SLIT2, and is involved in axon guidance and cell migration. It is particularly involved in axonal navigation at the ventral midline of the neural tube, thus ensuring appropriate nervous system development. The protein is also engaged in the biological processes of chemorepulsion involved in postnatal olfactory bulb interneuron migration, cell migration involved in sprouting angiogenesis, inhibition of mammary gland epithelial cell proliferation and inhibition of the chemokine-mediated signaling pathway.
Researchers have noted the presence of a splice variant, designated DUTT1, that differs in function from ROBO1. While ROBO1 plays a role in neuronal development, DUTT1 is believed to be involved in tumor suppression. Haploinsufficiency of the ROBO1 gene has been suggested to predispose humans to developmental dyslexia. Studies have also identified an age-varying association between a ROBO1 SNP and obesity.