Major regulator of extracellular matrix organization during tissue remodeling (PubMed:15917224, PubMed:18042364, PubMed:26823460). Catalyzes the transfer of a heavy chain (HC) from inter-alpha-inhibitor (I-alpha-I) complex to hyaluronan. Cleaves the ester bond between the C-terminus of the HC and GalNAc residue of the chondroitin sulfate chain in I-alpha-I complex followed by transesterification of the HC to hyaluronan. In the process, potentiates the antiprotease function of I-alpha-I complex through release of free bikunin (PubMed:15917224, PubMed:16873769, PubMed:20463016). Acts as a catalyst in the formation of hyaluronan-HC oligomers and hyaluronan-rich matrix surrounding the cumulus cell-oocyte complex, a necessary step for oocyte fertilization (PubMed:26468290). Assembles hyaluronan in pericellular matrices that serve as platforms for receptor clustering and signaling. Enables binding of hyaluronan deposited on the surface of macrophages to LYVE1 on lymphatic endothelium and facilitates macrophage extravasation. Alters hyaluronan binding to functionally latent CD44 on vascular endothelium, switching CD44 into an active state that supports leukocyte rolling (PubMed:15060082, PubMed:26823460). Modulates the interaction of chemokines with extracellular matrix components and proteoglycans on endothelial cell surface, likely preventing chemokine gradient formation (PubMed:27044744). In a negative feedback mechanism, may limit excessive neutrophil recruitment at inflammatory sites by antagonizing the association of CXCL8 with glycosaminoglycans on vascular endothelium (PubMed:24501198). Has a role in osteogenesis and bone remodeling. Inhibits BMP2-dependent differentiation of mesenchymal stem cell to osteoblasts (PubMed:16771708, PubMed:18586671). Protects against bone erosion during inflammation by inhibiting TNFSF11/RANKL-dependent osteoclast activation (PubMed:18586671).
